Mustafizur banking on off-cutters to tame India

Two years ago during India’s tour of Bangladesh, Rahman rose to the limelight by bagging five-wicket hauls in two consecutive matches against the world champions. India and Bangladesh will square off in the Champions Trophy semis on Thursday. 

But Mustafizur, who picked up just one wicket from three games, is worried about about the fact that his famed off-cutters are not working in England like they do in sub-continental conditions. “There is no end to improving. My cutters are more effective back home. It is not working that well here, but I am still trying,” Mustafizur said. 

“We have reached the semifinals. With a semifinal against India in the offing, everyone is in high spirits. I hope that something good will happen. I always try to execute what I am thinking about and I try to give my best,” he added. Mustafizur is optimistic about a good result against India but said the Tigers need to produce a collective effort for that to happen. 

“We always believe in ourself. If everyone has a good day, then I hope something good will happen,” he concluded. Former Bangladesh captain captain Gazi Ashraf felt more than training on the pitch, it is the mental preparedness that is key for Bangladesh. 

“I feel mentally they (players) need to be ready. That is the key against India. This is their best chance at glory and I hope a great match will be on show. I really hope Bangladesh come out successful showing great mental strength,” the former captain said. 

India and Bangladesh have fought bitter battles in the past and the latter has been on the losing side on two occassions in ICC events.