India and Bangladesh met today in a Super Four clash that carried high stakes and heavy expectations, with the latter hoping to extend their momentum after a spirited win against Sri Lanka.

Bangladesh entered the contest with renewed confidence, but they faced an Indian side widely regarded as one of the most formidable T20I teams in recent years. Since the start of 2024, India have won 32 of their 35 matches, a record that underscores both their dominance and consistency.

Former Indian opener Aakash Chopra had urged Bangladesh to maintain the aggression that saw them stun Sri Lanka, but he acknowledged the challenge posed by India’s depth and tactical flexibility. 

He advised the Tigers to deploy a spin-heavy attack on Dubai’s slower pitch, including Nasum Ahmed, Sheikh Mehdi and Rishad Hossain, arguing that three spinners would give Bangladesh their best chance of disrupting India’s batting rhythm.

Bangladesh also faced the added pressure of back-to-back fixtures, with Pakistan awaiting them less than 24 hours later. Chopra suggested that while Pakistan might be the “easier” opponent, Liton Das’s men would have to pour everything into their clash with India if they were to stay in contention for the final.

For India, today’s match was another chance to assert their supremacy following their double triumph over Pakistan earlier in the tournament. Captain Suryakumar Yadav’s recent remark downplaying the notion of an India-Pakistan “rivalry” reflected the team’s confidence – and perhaps the widening gulf between India and their regional challengers.

Bangladesh, however, had every reason to believe they could push back. Mahedi Hasan and Mustafizur Rahman’s combined spell of 8-0-45-5 against Sri Lanka showcased their ability to exploit sluggish conditions. 

A victory over India would not only revive their campaign but also mark their first win over their neighbours since 2019 – a result that could reignite hopes of building a genuine rivalry.

SMS/