In a much-awaited showdown, India and Bangladesh are poised to face each other in the 17th match of the ODI Cricket World Cup 2023 at the iconic MCA Stadium in Pune on October 19. This match not only rekindles the longstanding rivalry between these two cricketing nations but also marks a significant occasion, a clash in India’s one-day internationals after a hiatus of 25 years, dating back to 1998.
The fans were seen with utmost enthusiasm and excitement for the much-anticipated clash. Over the years the rivalry with the Bangladesh team has grown immensely. But the venue of Pune will be the proper hunting ground for the Indian team to break the jinx. In an interesting turn of events, a fan was seen holding a placard stating, “I will not date until Rohit lifts World Cup”. Another fan was seen holding a poster reading, “Cricket is my religion, Rohit Sharma is my God.”
Let us see how Twitter has reacted to this funny incident spotted in Pune;
We need another century from Rohit pic.twitter.com/JkHMxMmphQ
— Abhishek Ojha (@vicharabhio) October 19, 2023
Craze for Rohit sharma is just unmatchable
— Useer45 (@140of113) October 19, 2023
New god of CRICKET ?
— ???????s??? (@45Fan_Prathmesh) October 19, 2023
Today is Gill and Kohli day….Rohit Just Give fast start in 10 overs….Rest Gill and Kohli will manage….
— Hriday Singh (@hridaysingh16) October 19, 2023
HITMAN fan club.
— Cricket Polls (@CricPollsdaily) October 19, 2023
Rohittt sharma fans every where????
— Mohit (@MohitMe11065970) October 19, 2023
Bhai roar to koi nai kar raha… chup chap photo click karwa rahe hain…??
— VJ (@VJsGamer) October 19, 2023
Bhai roar to koi nai kar raha… chup chap photo click karwa rahe hain…??
— VJ (@VJsGamer) October 19, 2023
Shakib Al Hasan has missed the clash for Bangladesh against India
In the ODI World Cup clash Bangladesh’s Najmul Hussain Shanto was given the role of captain, replacing Shakib Al Hasan. After winning the toss, Shanto elected to bat first. Explaining the absence of the seasoned all-rounder Shakib, Shanto disclosed that he is grappling with an injury, describing him as “struggling a bit.” Nasum Ahmed has been brought in as his replacement.
This unexpected turn of events has heightened anticipation among cricket enthusiasts, eager for updates on Shakib’s condition and how Bangladesh will fare without him. Adding to Bangladesh’s challenges, the absence of the formidable pacer Taskin Ahmed is notable. Taskin was a key bowler alongside Mustafizur Rahman and could have been a potent threat with the new ball. However, Bangladesh’s strategic decision saw Hasan Mahmud taking Taskin’s place, sparking discussions in the cricketing world.
Shakib had to witness the clash against India from the sidelines due to a persistent injury sustained. He sustained the injury in a previous encounter in the ODI World Cup 2023 against New Zealand. The resilient all-rounder had admirably soldiered on despite injuring his left quadriceps. Despite that, the skipper demonstrated remarkable determination by compiling a 51-ball 40 with the bat. The 36-year-old also courageously completed his full quota of 10 overs, dismissing Kiwi opener Devon Conway.
His physical discomfort was evident while running, and notably, he was conspicuously absent during the post-match presentation ceremony, underscoring the severity of his injury and his unwavering commitment to the game. Bangladesh’s head coach, Chandika Hathurusingha, emphasized that the star all-rounder would only participate in the World Cup match against India if he regains full fitness.