Former Bangladesh captain Tamim Iqbal emphasized the critical role of the top four batsmen in securing a victory against South Africa in their ICC T20 World Cup Group D match on Monday.

"I think it has to come from the top four," Tamim told ESPNCricinfo on Sunday.

Tamim expressed hope that Liton would build on his innings against Sri Lanka and that other top-order batsmen would step up as well.

"Liton has been struggling for a while, didn't have the most fluent innings last game but still he got some runs so he should be feeling a little confident. He has done well in the past against South Africa. Soumya has done well against South Africa in the past also. So, I think these guys will be key," Tamim said.

He also highlighted the importance of experienced players like Mahmudullah and Shakib Al Hasan, stressing the need for a combined team effort rather than relying on individual performances. "I think if Bangladesh can play as a unit and then score 160-165, even 150, given the way the wicket is behaving, you never know," added Tamim.

The South African top-order has also struggled for runs in the tournament. In their match against the Netherlands, they were reduced to 12-4 at one point while chasing 104. It was David Miller's unbeaten 59 off 51 balls that eventually bailed them out.

Bd-pratidin English/Tanvir Raihan