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The ICC ODI World Cup 2023 reaches Pune’s MCA International Stadium in Gahunje for its first game between India and Bangladesh on Thursday, October 19. Notably, this will be the 17th game of the league stage. While India have been unbeaten in the tournament thus far, Bangladesh saw success in their first game against Afghanistan followed by a couple of huge defeats against England and New Zealand, respectively.

After two losses, Bangladesh will desperate to bounce back and return to winning ways, and for that there will be three players who will be key to their success in the outing against the Men in Blue. Let us have a look at the three players to watch out for from Bangladesh for the clash between Asian powerhouses.

3. Mahmudullah

Mahmudullah has been the backbone of Bangladesh’s lower middle-order. He has partnered with tail-enders in crunch situations multiple times, and played crucial knocks for his side. In the previous game against the BlackCaps, he scored a crucial 41-run knock and helped the side reach a respectable total. A similar performance will be expected from the batter when he plays on Thursday.

2. Mehidy Hasan Miraz

Mehidy Hasan Miraz has risen fast through the ranks of being one of the best all-rounders for the Bangla Tigers of late. In fact, his equally good contributions with both the bat and the ball have proved to be crucial in the team’s success in the recent past. He has been in excellent form and thus, an all-round contribution from Miraz can surely help the Shakib Al Hasan-led side gain their second victory of the tournament.

1. Shakib Al Hasan

The Southpaw has been one of the best all-rounders in world cricket. He holds a vast experience of playing against India, and has also been an excellent leader who has always stepped up to the occasion on big stages. His left-arm spin might trouble the Indian batters, and he also holds a handy bat, which can be a big plus-point for Bangladesh against the undefeated Indians.