Soumya set to return for first T20I

After being dropped in the last two one-day internationals at Nelson, left-handed batsman Soumya Sarkar is likely to return in the first T20I against New Zealand at Mclean Park in Napier tomorrow.

The top-order batsman, who has been struggling for runs and scored only one in the opening game at Christchurch, was dropped from the next two games. But while speaking to the reporters on Sunday coach Chandika Hathurusingha admitted that it was a bit harsh on Soumya not to get a few games in conditions that suited his batting.

The team management is intent on packing the bowling attack with more medium pacers than spinners. In that case Shakib Al Hasan might play as the lone recognised spinner with Mosaddek Hossain as an off-spinning all-rounder.

It will not be surprising if pace bowler Rubel Hossain comes in for Taskin Ahmed. But this is something the team management will decide after having a look at the wicket.