Tense atmosphere surrounds the Tigers

Ever since the shocking defeat against Scotland, one question that has been constantly asked by the Bangladeshi expats here in Muscat is whether the Tigers can qualify for the Super 12 stage and take the flight for Dubai or whether Mahmudullah Riyad and his troops will have to return home empty handed.

The answer to the question, however, is still a mystery for the demoralised Bangladeshi supporters in Muscat where a defeat in one of the next two games could lead to a disaster.

The atmosphere among the cricketers during the optional training session remained tense with no smiles on their faces. Mushfiqur Rahim was the first one to enter the Al Amerat Cricket Stadium and went straight to the wicket at the centre for a batting session.

Head coach Russell Domingo was late to attend the official press conference and it was learned that the South African was busy answering questions to the Bangladesh Cricket Board president Nazmul Hassan during a zoom meeting.

Bangladesh often breaks down whenever there is a pressure situation and the upcoming game against Oman would probably be the most important game for the Tigers if they want to stay alive in the mega event.

When asked whether Domingo and his players do actually believe that the Tigers can qualify for the Super 12 stage and can win the next two games on the trot following the latest shocking defeat, Domingo seemed pretty confident.

"I think it's important to do the basics right as you don't have to try to play fancy and do something spectacular. That often helps you do well in a pressure situation. Definitely, the boys are confident to still get through this situation.

"I have great belief in the boys who have played really tight games over the last year and came out on top. The guys are full of belief to win the next two games and qualify for the Super 12 stage and I don't doubt the self-belief of the boys," Domingo told the media yesterday.

The 47-year-old also clarified the reason for not including Naim Sheikh despite preparing the left-handed opener in the last 16 games for Bangladesh ahead of the mega event. Domingo, however, added that the left-hander has a chance to return to the playing eleven against Oman today.

"We actually needed the sixth bowling option as Mahmudullah was unable to bowl due to his injury. We wanted an option and Soumya was included in the eleven only because of this reason. Obviously, it was disappointing from Naim's point of view and I think he might get into the playing eleven today," he said. 

Oman on the other hand, is gaining in confidence after the comprehensive ten-wicket win over Papua New Guinea and according to all-rounder Khawar Ali, the hosts will look to exploit the Tigers' weakness to win the game.

"I can remember Tamim Iqbal scored a hundred against us when we met last time. But it was six years back and Oman cricket has come a long way since then and we are a much better side now.

What we observed from the first game is that they struggled while chasing and were under pressure. I think they are a bit weak in batting and we want to utilise that aspect," said Khawar.