Bangladesh reached the last four of Asian Games without playing a ball in the quarter-final after rain forced the match against Malaysia to be abandoned. Pakistan also progressed without taking the field against Hong Kong, China as rain continued to disrupt the knockout stage.
With the weather finally improving in Nisshin, Bangladesh were able to train properly on Wednesday. Yasir Ali Chowdhury said it was the first time the team had seen sunshine since arriving in Japan.
“Alhamdulillah, I think this is the first time we have seen sunshine since coming to Japan. It feels good. Today we were able to get out on the field and train properly,” Yasir said.
The repeated rain had also affected Bangladesh’s preparation, but Yasir said the players had tried to remain mentally ready. The team could not complete a planned gym session but used their time by training on the football pitch and playing football.
Bangladesh will also be without Najmul Hossain Shanto, who has been ruled out of the remainder of the tournament because of illness. Yasir admitted his absence was unfortunate but said the team must now focus on the players available.
“It is unfortunate that Shanto is leaving because of illness. But what has happened has happened. I think our focus should now be on what lies ahead,” he said.
Yasir also dismissed the suggestion that Pakistan are struggling and said Bangladesh would need to earn victory through their own performance.
“I wouldn’t say they are struggling. They are a very good team. The team that plays better will win. So, we will give our best,” he said.
The batter added that Bangladesh would not make drastic changes to their approach against Pakistan.
“I think we should maintain our process against every team and play positive cricket,” Yasir said. “The rest will depend a lot on the wicket and the weather.”
The semi-final will be played at Korogi Sports Park in Nisshin on Thursday, with the winners advancing to the gold-medal match.
