Bangladesh look to make it seven ODI series in a row

The Tigers’ success graph has continued to rise ever since they defeated England to reach the 2015 World Cup quarter-finals. Since then, head coach Chandika Hathurusingha and his troop have maintained their brilliant form at home, emerging as the new Asian powerhouse. The recently-concluded Afghanistan series also worked out well for the Tigers as they returned to the ODI arena after a 10-month break. Through the Afghanistan ODIs, the Bangladesh cricketers made up for their lack of match preparation and got the opportunity to rectify their mistakes. And against the visiting England side, the five pillars of Bangladesh - Tamim Iqbal, Shakib al Hasan, Mushfiqur Rahim, Mahmudullah and Mashrafe bin Mortaza - will once again have to guide the side while young guns like Sabbir Rahman and Taskin Ahmed must bring out their best performance. Imrul Kayes is likely to replace the struggling Soumya Sarkar today after the former smashed a scintillating hundred in the practice match in Fatullah on Tuesday. However, Al Amin Hossain, who recently made a comeback to the national side after missing the Afghanistan series, and Nasir Hossain have slim chances of making it into the playing XI. On the other hand, it’s not the same England side who exited the 2015 World Cup down under, courtesy Bangladesh’s 15-run win in Adelaide. They have played some exciting cricket in the last year or so and are now more than a handful for any opposition, especially in the limited-over formats. England will miss their regular ODI skipper Eoin Morgan and opening batsman Alex Hales, who were instrumental behind their recent success, but makeshift captain Jos Buttler definitely has momentum on his side after an impressive run lately. The wicketkeeper-batsman though has his hands full this time around as he will not only have to marshal the batting department but also guide his charges in challenging sub-continental conditions. Jason Roy has been in terrific touch with the bat and will lead the new-look attacking English opening line-up where he may have James Vince or Ben Duckett as his partner. Moeen Ali will play the role of Shakib for England and his experience of playing in Bangladesh before will certainly help his side to get the proper knowledge of pitch and conditions. According to sources, the pitch is expected to be a sporting one and will offer runs. However, there will be some assistance for the spinners. The only bad news is the weather as forecasts suggest there is a possibility of rain today.