Pride at stake for battered Tigers

Having suffered three consecutive defeats in their first three Super 12 matches, Bangladesh will have precious little else other than pride to salvage when they take on South Africa in Abu Dhabi today.

The game is scheduled to begin at 4 pm Bangladesh time.

Already in a hapless state, Bangladesh's chances were dealt a further blow following Shakib Al Hasan's tournament-ending hamstring injury, which the all-rounder sustained during the game against West Indies.

In absence of Shakib and Nurul Hasan not yet regaining fitness, things seem even tougher for head coach Russell Domingo to form a balanced playing eleven as the squad currently has only 13 fit players available for selection.

It is all but confirmed that young Shamim Hossain will make his World Cup debut today but there is still concern over the bowling department and possibly Bangladesh would go with a bowler short against the Proteas.

The game will also be a test of Bangladesh's ability as a T20I side as questions are being asked of their approach and execution in the middle.

Bangladesh's batting has been the biggest area of concern, with the lack of firepower in the Powerplay and the death overs being exposed brutally.

Poor catching has cost the team dearly against Sri Lanka and West Indies and the coaching staff were busy working on the fielding for a long period of time yesterday.

South Africa, on the other hand, bounced back well following a five-wicket defeat to Australia in their opening game as Temba Bavuma and Co troop went on to beat West Indies and Sri Lanka in their next two games.

Bangladesh will have to come up with a better approach in all three departments for their maiden win in the Super 12 stage today.  But considering the low morale and lack of confidence, it seems like tough ask yet again.