The upcoming final match of the Super 4 stage in the Asia Cup 2023 between India and Bangladesh appears to be a one-sided affair, with India already having secured their spot in the final while Bangladesh is out of contention. This encounter, scheduled for September 15 in Colombo, seems more like a formality than a fiercely contested showdown.
India's journey to the final has been impressive, defeating arch-rivals Pakistan and Sri Lanka with flair. Their team has shown remarkable prowess in both batting and bowling departments, making them the team to beat in this tournament. With a formidable batting lineup and a potent bowling attack, they are the clear favorites going into the final.
In contrast, Bangladesh's campaign has been disappointing, suffering heavy defeats to both Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Their batting order has struggled, failing to put up competitive totals. To make matters worse, their bowlers have been unable to contain the opposition effectively.
While cricket can be unpredictable, the odds are heavily stacked in India's favour for this final match. Nevertheless, in the world of sports, surprises are always possible, and Bangladesh may aim to salvage some pride with an upset victory. Cricket fans will be watching to see if Bangladesh can defy the odds and make this seemingly one-sided contest more interesting.
Probable Playing XIs
India
Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul (wk), Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj.
Bangladesh
Mohammad Naim, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Litton Das, Shakib Al Hasan (c), Towhid Hridoy, Mushfiqur Rahim (wk), Shamim Hossain, Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful Islam, Hasan Mahmud, Nasum Ahmed.
Key Players
KL Rahul: The wicketkeeper-batter has been in sublime form since his return from injury. Rahul has scored a century against Pakistan and also played an impressive knock of 39 against Sri Lanka.
Mehidy Hasan Miraz: He has already scored a century in this Asia Cup and has also picked up crucial wickets. Bangladesh will expect him to deliver with both bat and ball in this contest.
Match Prediction
India have been the best team in this Asia Cup by a large distance and Bangladesh has been the worst of the lot. So, it's clear which way this contest is going to go — India will start as the favourites.