Crucial Clash: Pakistan aims to break losing streak against Bangladesh to revive world cup hopes.

KOLKATA (Web Desk) – Pakistan faces a make-or-break situation as they prepare to take on a determined Bangladesh side at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Tuesday. With four consecutive losses in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, Pakistan is on the brink of elimination and must secure a victory to keep their semi-final hopes alive.

The clash between Pakistan and Bangladesh in ODIs has been relatively infrequent, with only one meeting taking place since the last ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup. In that encounter, Babar Azam’s XI secured a convincing seven-wicket win during the Super Four stage of the recent Asia Cup.

Pakistan’s historical dominance in ODIs against Bangladesh is evident, with the majority of their five wins in 38 ODIs coming during head-to-head contests. However, the past statistics will hold little relevance for Pakistan as they grapple with their current campaign.

The 1992 World Cup champions find themselves in a precarious position after four consecutive defeats. To have any chance of reaching the knockout stages of the tournament, Pakistan must win every remaining match and rely on other results to go in their favor.

A fifth loss in a row would almost certainly seal Pakistan’s fate, marking their exit from the showpiece event in India.

On the other hand, Bangladesh, who began the Cricket World Cup with a strong victory over Afghanistan, have struggled to secure another win, sliding down the tournament standings.

With Bangladesh currently occupying the ninth spot, this match holds immense significance for both teams as they face dwindling opportunities to turn their World Cup campaigns around.

Throughout the tournament, Mohammad Rizwan has been Pakistan’s most consistent batsman, registering solid performances in all but one of his six innings. Rizwan’s partnership with Babar Azam, who is beginning to make a more significant impact, is crucial for Pakistan’s resurgence in the competition.

Bangladesh, led by the promising left-arm quick Shoriful Islam, seeks to inject youthful enthusiasm into their squad. The 22-year-old has been a standout performer, claiming eight wickets in six matches but also struggling to contain strong opposition batsmen, conceding 6.51 runs per over.

Shoriful’s performance with the new ball and his ability to replicate his middle-stage exploits will be key to Bangladesh’s chances of securing a second victory in India.

Squads:

Pakistan squad: