Pathan unfit to play against Bangladesh tomorrow

Karachi, Jun 27 (UNI) Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan, in all probability, will miss the first match of the super-four stage of Asia Cup against Bangladesh tomorrow as he has still not recovered from the side strain.

''It is still not clear about Irfan. We will check on his fitness tomorrow morning but most probably he will get a rest,'' coach Gary Kirsten told mediapersons at the National stadium after the team's practice session.

Kirsten said though Pathan is recovering well, the team will not take any chances and would rest him for another game.

The former South African opener hinted a few changes in the playing XI against Bangladesh tomorrow.

''There might be some changes because we want to give the guys on the bench chances to play,'' he said.

Meanwhile, captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni too was keen to test the bench strength in tomorrow's game.

''It is important that whenever we get a chance to give some of these guys a go so that they can perform and be on their toes,'' he said.

Kirsten was unmoved by the loss to Bangladesh in the last year's World Cup and said the game was history now.

''That was a different team and the past this is a different team and for us now every match is a new match, So we are not bothered,'' he added.

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