Australia vs Bangladesh preview

Posted on | March 31, 2007 | No Comments

Defending champions Australia will take nothing for granted when they take on surprise package Bangladesh in the super eight in Antigua.

The Aussies have so far been merciless in their quest to retain their title, notching up 4 wins in as many games, which has included wins over South Africa and hosts West Indies.Bangladesh represent the first out of two games where they are expected by everybody to take full points out of the game- the other being Ireland. The way they went about their job against the West Indies was impressive. Matthew Hayden is in the form of his life and has been an key reason for the success of the Aussies. Bracken and Tait are going about their job with the new ball very well- Bracken keeps it tight while Tait is a threat with his fast yorkers. Brad Hogg and McGrath took three wickets apiece against the West Indies on the same ground and Bangladesh should expect no less from them in this game.

Bangaldesh have surprised everybody by reaching here in the first place. They qualified from the so called group of death, behind Sri lanka. They beat New Zealand in one of their warm up games and then beat India and Bermuda in the group B. They did get whacked by  Sri Lanka, but this is an altogether new day. Bangladesh would like to draw inspiration from the Natwest Series game in Cardiff, where they shocked Australia by successfully chasing down 250. Mohammad Ashraful scored a century that day, and he will again play a key role. The Bangladeshi bowlers have generally done their job well, and if Mortaza and Rasel can keep Gilchrist and Hayden quiet in the initial overs, the spinners could pose big problems for the remaining batsmen. Saqibul Hassan has showed great maturity in this tournament and his all round skills will come in handy for Whatmore’s side.

Given the form that Australia are in, a repeat of that will surely ensure a Bangladeshi defeat. Bangladesh, however have nothing to lose and will go all out to try and sneak in a win. Hayden, Bracken and Hogg the men to watch out for.

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2. West Indies vs Bangladesh preview
3. Bangladesh vs South Africa betting preview
4. Bangladesh vs Netherlands betting preview- World Cup 2011
5. South Africa vs Bangladesh preview

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