They appeared relaxed ahead of their semifinal against defending champions India. And inspirational Bangladesh captain Mashrafe Bin Mortaza, while appearing at a press briefing, pointed out that the bowlers would have hard time bowling on this wicket.
"It is more like an Oval wicket. It might be a tough wicket for the bowlers. We will have to adjust ourselves with the wicket," said the Bangladesh captain
On the other side India captain Virat Kohli warned his team not to underestimate Bangladesh, a team who have improved dramatically over the past few years to the point where they are now one game away from reaching a first final at an ICC event, and called for complete focus against their "dangerous" opponents.
"It's no surprise anymore to anyone that they are doing really well," Kohli said. "They are a very dangerous side on their day and everyone realises that ... Bangladesh have taken huge strides."
When Bangladesh take on India in the second semifinal at Edgbaston today they will want to continue their dream run in the ICC Champions Trophy.
The Tigers are already in a territory they have never been before in an ICC flagship event and a victory against Virat Kohli's India will not only be treated as the biggest sporting moment but one of the few glorious achievements for a thriving nation.
India have won 26 of their 32 ODIs against Bangladesh, who won five and the other game produced a no-result. In that context Bangladesh stand little chance against a mighty India, who not only boast of an imposing batting line-up but also a very good pace battery.
Appearing at the pre-match briefing, the Tigers captain said that he was not sure if the semifinal against India is the biggest match ever for Bangladesh. It is a riddle for anyone but if one goes by his words there might still be a bigger game in store for the Tigers. Let's pray for a cracker of a game under glorious sunshine and hope that emotions do not triumph over wisdom, which was the case in the 2015 World Cup quarterfinal in Australia and the 2016 World T20 group stage game against the same team in India.
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