DHAKA, (Reuters) – Bangladesh, battered in their opening World Cup match by India, can bounce back by beating either England or the West Indies in Group B, according to former skipper Habibul Bashar.
India beat Bangladesh by 87 runs on Saturday as opener Virender Sehwag and middle-order batsman Virat Kohli hit 175 and 100 respectively to pile up a massive 370-4 before dismissing Bangladesh for 283-9.
“Bangladesh have played the toughest team of Group B but can still hope to reach the second round,” Bashar told Reuters yesterday.
Besides Bangladesh and India, Group B also includes England, South Africa, West Indies, Ireland and the Netherlands.
Former captain Habibul Bashar led Bangladesh between 2004 and 2007, and is considered the country’s most successful captain.
“We have five more matches to play and a berth in the second round can be ensured if we can win four games,” Bashar said.
“Wins in three matches may also give us a chance depending on other factors with other teams in the group.”
Bangladesh next play the non test-playing Ireland on Friday and twice former winners West Indies on March 4.
“We can easily beat Ireland and also can win against West Indies if we play carefully and have an appropriate game plan,” Bashar said.
