After defeating Pakistan in the first of the three ODI series, Bangladesh would be eager to clinch the series, as the South Asian teams are set for a second ODI at Mirpur.
However, this game would prove to be a do-or-die for the men in green who only suffered their second ever defeat to Bangladesh in the 50-over format. Bangladesh put up a great performance in front of their home crowd and another victory for the Tigers would make their fans go crazy.
But, it is not going to be an easy one for Bangladesh, as Pakistan must have been deeply hurt by their loss, after having won 25 consecutive ODI games against Bangladesh. The loss might not come as a huge surprise, as the Pakistani team looked a fresh side compared to the one, which played in the recently concluded World Cup.
Players such as Misbah-ul-Haq and Shahid Afridi, who have both hung their boots from ODI, were badly missed, as the team lacked experience.
"We can win like we did in the first ODI consistently. I believe we can win the series. The first win has boosted our confidence but we must remember that the second game won't be easy either," ESPN Cricinfo quoted Bangladeshi all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan as saying.
The Pakistani bowlers as well as the batsmen have to deliver the goods in the second ODI, if they are to have any chance of winning the series. In the bowling department, it was only Wahab Riaz, who looked in good rhythm as he took four wickets, but other bowlers looked clueless.
Even the experience of Saeed Ajmal, who had just returned to international cricket after getting his action right, could not contain the Bangladeshi batsmen, who piled 329 runs.
Azhar Ali, who failed to win his first match as Pakistan captain, wants his bowlers to bounce back in the second ODI. "I think my team will come back strong. I know my team. As a bowling unit they will bounce back, you will see a much more improved performance in the next game," said Ali.
Meanwhile, the Bangladeshi players would be eager to continue their amazing form, especially Tamim Iqbal and Mushfiqur Rehman, who scored centuries in the first ODI.
Though, the pitch at Mirpur would be better suited to batting first, it should be no surprise if the team decides to chase down the score with some showers expected in the evening.
Where to Watch Live
The first ODI between Pakistan and Bangladesh is scheduled for 2:30pm local time (2pm IST, 1:30pm PST, 10:30am BMT, 4:30am ET) start with live TV coverage in India on Star Sports 1.
Pakistani viewers can watch the game live on PTV Sports and it can be followed online as well on Geo Super.
Bangladesh viewers can watch the match on Gazi TV, while cricket fans in the USA can watch the game live on Willow TV.
People in Europe can watch it live on Super Sport.
