Dhaka: Former national pacer Talha Jubair is optimistic about Bangladesh’s prospects against India and Pakistan in the upcoming Champions Trophy, asserting that the Tigers can defeat both sub-continental rivals if they perform well on their day.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Talha, who recently led the Khulna Tigers team in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), expressed his confidence to reporters. “We came close to beating India on several occasions but couldn’t finish our job,” he stated. “When we play against India, we have big expectations. Hopefully, we can finish the job this time properly,” he added.
While Bangladesh has recently dominated India in the ODI format, their record against the neighboring country in ICC events remains unimpressive, with their only victory against India in such tournaments occurring in 2007. Similarly, Bangladesh’s record against Pakistan in ICC events has not been encouraging, with their last win against Pakistan in an ICC tournament dating back to 1999. However, Talha remains confident in the Tigers’ ability to set new records.
“It’s possible to beat Pakistan. We need to play to our potential,” he said. Bangladesh made history last year by securing their first-ever Test series win over Pakistan, having swept them in a two-match Test series in Rawalpindi.
Bangladesh will commence their campaign against India in Dubai on February 19, followed by a match against Pakistan in Rawalpindi in February. The team will face New Zealand, the other team in their group, on February 27, also in Rawalpindi.
Talha emphasized the importance of bowling in partnership, which he believes is crucial for success against any opponent. “It’s important to bowl in partnership. You have to keep pressure on them by not leaking runs even when you can’t take a wicket. If you keep the pressure, you can stifle them,” he explained.