Luck may finally be turning for Soumya Sarkar, with the left-hander expected to feature in Bangladesh’s eleven in the second ODI of the three match against New Zealand at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium on Monday.

Soumya had been waiting in the wings for an opportunity, but head coach Phil Simmons indicated before the series opener on Friday that Bangladesh had found stability in the opening pair of Saif Hassan and Tanzid Hasan Tamim, suggesting limited chances for changes at the top.

That outlook, however, appears to be shifting following the underwhelming form of the middle order.

According to sources, Soumya is being considered for the number three role in the second ODI. Regular number three Najmul Hossain Shanto is likely to move down to number four as part of a reshuffle.

Soumya looked in good touch during net sessions ahead of the first ODI, timing the ball better than several regular starters. However, concerns remain over his ability to adapt to Mirpur surfaces, where the ball tends to grip and hold up – a challenge he has struggled with in the past.

If his last ODI outing is any indication, Soumya could still make a significant impact. In the third ODI at home against the West Indies last year, he played a fluent 86-ball 91 on a turning track, helping Bangladesh seal the series. However, a dip in domestic form subsequently saw him dropped for the Pakistan series.

Team management are hopeful the surface for the second ODI will offer a bit more pace than the first match. If so, Soumya’s inclusion could provide the spark Bangladesh need as they look to level the series after a 26-run defeat in the opener.