West Indies continued his impressive streak in Bangladeshclinching the T20I series with one match still to play after defeating the hosts by 14 runs in the second T20I at the Bir Sreshtho Flight Lieutenant Matiur Rahman Stadium. The visitors showed valor with both bat and ball, defending a modest total of 149/9 to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.
Shai Hope and Alick Athanaze guide West Indies to competitive total
After opting to bat first, the West Indies got off to a slow start when Brandon Rey fell cheap by just one run. However, Alick Athanaze and Shai Hope steadied the innings with a solid 87-run partnership that set the stage for a competitive score. Athanaze was the aggressor, smashing 52 off 33 balls with five fours and three sixes, while Hope anchored the innings with 55 off 36 composed deliveries, including three boundaries and as many sixes.
Despite the good start, the Bangladesh players managed to return to the middle and the death. Mustafizur Rahman led the charge with a magnificent spell of 3 for 21, while Nasum Ahmed and Rishad Hossain contributed two wickets each to restrict the Windies to 149 for 9 in their 20 overs. The visitors lost quick wickets towards the end, managing just 32 runs in the last five overs.
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Tanzid’s fifty in vain as Bangladesh fails in pursuit
In response, Bangladesh’s persecution got off to a shaky start when Saif Hasan He left early for only 5. Tanzid HasanHowever, he played solo at the top, displaying excellent strokeplay in his 61 runs off 48 balls, decorated with three fours and three sixes. Litton Das He provided some support with 23 runs off 17 balls, but once the duo fell, Bangladesh’s innings lost momentum.
The middle order, which presents Towhid Hridoy and Jaker Ali Anikfailed to build substantial partnerships, leaving too much for the lower order in the final overs. rosemary shepherd proved to be a game-changer with the ball, picking up three crucial wickets for 29 runs, while Akeal HoseinThe precise spell of 3 for 22 kept Bangladesh in check. Jason Holder also contributed with two wickets, ensuring the hosts finished on 135 for 8 in their 20 overs.
Shepherd’s all-round brilliance earned him the Player of the Match award for his vital three-wicket haul that turned the game in West Indies’ favour. His clever variations and control in the killing operations prevented Bangladesh from any late surge. With this victory, West Indies have now taken a 2-0 lead in the three-match series, following their 16-run victory in the opening game. The final T20I promises to be a chance for Bangladesh to save their pride, while the visitors will be looking for a clean win to cap a dominant performance on the tour.
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