Tigers bat against Zimbabwe

Bangladesh won the toss and opted to bat first against Zimbabwe in the 5th match of the Tri-nation series at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium (SBNCS) in Mirpur on Tuesday.

A confirmed place in the final of a tournament is something new for Bangladesh, especially when they still have two group matches left to play. However, they should not be complacent taking on a side that is one win away from making it to the final.

But Zimbabwe do need to fix a few things. As was clear in Sunday's loss to Sri Lanka, their batting tends to fizzle out after a good start. Hamilton Masakadza and Solomon Mire may hold the key once again. They will have to find a way to counter Bangladesh's spinners, but a little bit of support might help.

In the middle order, Craig Ervine has made four runs in three innings. Brendan Taylor still appears to be easing back into international cricket again. Malcolm Waller and Peter Moor have been under par too.

A different kind of challenge awaits the Bangladesh batsmen. Blessing Muzarabani and Kyle Jarvis will want to test them with pace and bounce and, as such, the in-form Tamim Iqbal and Shakib Al Hasan will want to mix aggression with discretion.

The home side would also want bigger contributions from Anamul Haque and Sunzamul Islam, given how there are other players vying for their spots.