Bangladesh A hopeful against India

Bangladesh A would be taking on formidable India A in the Emerging Asia Cup semifinal today, hoping for a good day in the day-night fixture in Colombo. India A made the semis after sweeping away Pakistan A by eight wickets, and selector Habibul Bashar told reporters that they are hoping for a good day to overcome India's challenge.

Bangladesh themselves put in a side bolstered by openers, with Soumya Sarkar being played as a middle-order batter. With a World Cup coming up, the team management had decided that younger stars who can perform in the tournament would be in contention.

"We are very hopeful but India are a good side. It's a semifinal after all and you need a good day. Everyone has played good cricket but it's important to repeat that. Their batting and bowling are very good," Bashar said yesterday.

The bowling side will be in focus even the team management are in favour of testing how the batters fare. While the likes of Ripon Mondol or Tazim Sakib are being given opportunities for the future, for Soumya and Sheikh Mahedi, the chance presented could have a more immediate impact as national team looks for backups.