Rishad will be the ‘Game-Changer’ for Tigers
Rishad Hossain during practice in Dubaii
With only one specialist leg-spinner in the Bangladesh squad—Rishad Hossain—the team will be relying on his skills, as stated by players like Najmul Hossain Shanto and Tanzim Hasan Sakib.
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Pakistan’s pitches have been a paradise for batters since the return of international cricket in 2015, with an average run rate of 5.89 per over in ODIs. While batters thrive in such conditions, leg-spinners have also proven to be game-changers, often providing crucial breakthroughs despite conceding runs at times.
Bangladesh has gradually recognized the importance of wrist-spinners, and an ICC video recently highlighted the team’s confidence in Rishad.
Skipper Shanto emphasized the leg-spinner’s crucial role, stating, "If Rishad bowls well, we will be in a strong position. We know how good the wickets in Pakistan are. Wrist-spinners will play a key role in this tournament, and I’m excited to see how Rishad performs."
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Echoing this sentiment, Soumya Sarkar described wrist-spinners as "game-changer," adding, "We are all counting on Rishad."
Meanwhile, Tanzim Hasan Sakib pointed out Rishad’s dual value as a bowler and lower-order batter. "Rishad will be crucial for us. He consistently delivers breakthroughs with the ball and contributes with the bat when needed," he said.
Rishad made headlines in the 2024 T20 World Cup by taking 14 wickets, benefiting from spin-friendly conditions.
While the upcoming Champions Trophy may not offer the same level of assistance to spinners, leg-spinners could still prove to be match-winners—something Bangladesh will be hoping for from their young star.
