In a thrilling display of cricket in Kingstown, Bangladesh secured a commanding 27-run win over the West Indies, sealing the T20 series with a 2-0 lead. Taskin Ahmed’s exceptional bowling performance and Shamim Hossain’s aggressive batting were pivotal in Bangladesh’s triumph on a rain-affected day.
Taskin Ahmed Shines with the Ball
Taskin Ahmed, the star bowler for Bangladesh, delivered a spellbinding performance. His 3-wicket haul for just 16 runs dismantled the West Indies’ batting lineup, leaving the hosts struggling for momentum. Supported by three other Bangladeshi bowlers, each claiming two wickets, the visitors effectively stifled the opposition’s run chase.
The West Indies faltered early, losing wickets in quick succession. Despite brief resistance from Roston Chase, who scored 32 runs, and Akeal Hosein, contributing 31, the hosts were bowled out for a modest total of 102. Bangladesh’s bowlers demonstrated remarkable discipline, maintaining consistent pressure throughout the innings.
Shamim Hossain’s Quickfire Knock Steals the Show
In a rain-affected match that saw two interruptions, Shamim Hossain emerged as the standout performer with the bat. Scoring an unbeaten 35 runs off just 17 balls, he played a crucial role in pushing Bangladesh to a defendable total of 129 for 7 in their allotted 20 overs.
While the top-order struggled to find rhythm, Mehidy Hasan’s contribution of 26 runs provided some stability. Together, Shamim and Mehidy ensured that Bangladesh had a fighting chance despite a sluggish start. Gudakesh Motie’s effective bowling for the West Indies, taking 2 wickets for 25 runs, posed a challenge, but Shamim’s resilience proved decisive.
A Series Turnaround After ODI Disappointment
The series win marks a significant comeback for Bangladesh after a disappointing 3-0 loss in the preceding ODI series. The first T20 match saw Bangladesh clinch a narrow seven-run victory, setting the stage for their dominant performance in the second game. With this win, the visitors have showcased their ability to adapt and overcome challenges in different formats of the game.
Key Match Stats:
| Team | Score | Top Performers |
|---|---|---|
| Bangladesh | 129/7 | Shamim 35*, Mehidy 26 |
| West Indies | 102 all out | Chase 32, Hosein 31 |
| Bowling Highlights | Taskin Ahmed: 3-16 | Motie: 2-25 |
Third Match Awaits in St. Vincent
The third and final T20 match is scheduled for Thursday, also in St. Vincent. Although the series outcome is already decided, the game will offer the West Indies an opportunity to salvage pride and Bangladesh a chance to secure a clean sweep. Fans from both sides will eagerly anticipate another competitive contest on the field.
As the series progresses, Bangladesh’s remarkable turnaround in performance underscores their growing prowess in international cricket. Their disciplined bowling attack and impactful batting have undoubtedly made a statement against the West Indies.
