Asia Cup 2016: If we play to our potential, we can beat India, says Tamim Iqbal

Tamim also said that the side would like to focus on their strength and respect the ball.

New Delhi: Bangladesh opening batsman Tamim Iqbal said that if his side plays to their potential, then they can beat India and lift the Asia Cup Twenty20 trophy when the two teams clash on Sunday at the Shere Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur, Dhaka.

Tamim had played a pivotal part in 2007 50-over World Cup when Bangladesh upset India in the group stage and the batsman stated they have played some emorable matches against Team India earlier including the bilateral ODI series in 2015.

"I have forgotten about that match but you guys always make me remember. Yes, we have had some memorable matches against India. I believe if we play to our potential, there is every possibility of beating India. We have defeated them in 50-over format last year and there is no reason we can't repeat that in 20-over format," Tamim said.

Tamim also went on to add that he is confident that Bangladesh can tackle India's pace bowler Jasprit Bumrah, and that he has done his homework on him.

"We have had discussions in our team meeting about Jasprit Bumrah. We have seen footages of his bowling. I have done my homework on him and let's see how it goes. But it's not only Bumrah but every Indian player is important for us,” said Tamim.

The explosive batsman also said that the side would like to focus on their strength and respect the ball.

“But we would like to focus on our strength. If we get a good ball, we will respect the ball and if it needs to be punished, we will do it."

Bangladesh will expect Tamim to give them a solid start upfront alogside Soumya Sarkar, who excelled in the match against Pakistan.

India beat Bangladesh in the opening tie of the tournament convincingly.

(With PTI inputs)