A couple of years ago, with the emergence of an attractive stroke maker in Mohammad Ashraful and a sharp pace bowler in Mashrafe Mortaza, one thought things would change quickly in Bangladesh’s game. Instead, in 21 ODIs since the 2007 World Cup, Bangladesh have lost 18. The three wins were at home over the hapless Irish.

Since then, they have lost seven ODIs on the trot. A win over UAE would cut their losing streak and provide them the confidence they need in the second stage of Asia Cup. Then, an upset win over Pakistan and India could throw a spanner in the works. But for that to happen, the Bangladeshis have to play out of their skins.