‘Time to do something special’

With the growing belief in Bangladesh's pace bowling unit, talks of it playing a crucial role in the Asia Cup and the World Cup have dominated the headlines in recent times.  

However, left-arm spinner Sohrawordi Shuvo, who was part of the Tigers' maiden Asia Cup final berth in 2012, believes that Bangladesh's spin department can spring a surprise in this Asia Cup.

"Look, our pacers have shown vast improvements in recent years, and I must say they have made an impression in world cricket. But if I compare our pace bowling unit to teams like India or Pakistan, we are still behind in this area. I am not saying we don't have the ability but I think our spinners will have to play a key role to back the seamers," opined Shuvo. 

Bangladesh are scheduled to begin their Asia Cup campaign against co-hosts Sri Lanka in Pallekele today. The continental championship, being held in Pakistan and Sri Lanka, along with the upcoming ICC ODI World Cup, scheduled in October-November in India, are expected to be played in similar conditions that have plenty of assistance for spinners. 

Once again, skipper Shakib Al Hasan will lead the Tigers' spin department including off-spinner Mehedi Hasan Miraz and left-arm spinner Nasum Ahmed.

Shohrawordi Shuvo. Photo: AFP File

"We have someone like Shakib with his vast experience. He can turn things around along with Miraz who has been doing well as an off-spinner. Suppose one or two of our pacers had an off day, it's the spinners who need to step up in order to contain runs and put pressure on the opponent," said Shuvo.

Despite reaching the final of the Asia Cup three times in the past, Bangladesh are yet to clinch the title and there are expectations that the Tigers can break the barrier this time around.

"When we reached the final of the Asia Cup for the first time in 2012, I can remember we just went with the flow, never thinking of reaching that stage until we eventually got there. I can recall the final against Pakistan where we lost the game by the barest of margins and the heartbreaking scenes after that are still fresh to many till now," Shuvo recalled those agonising memories. 

Shuvo believes that the Bangladesh side have matured over the years and now know how to take that final step in major tournaments like the Asia Cup.  

"We didn't know how to cope up with the pressure back then but over the years I think we have grown as a good ODI unit. We now have a few very experienced players along with a fresh group of youngsters who can dream big. Many feel we should have won a global title by now and I also feel the same. I think now is the time to do something special," he said.