Kingstown, St Vincent – Bangladesh has made history by winning their first T20I match against the West Indies on their home ground, claiming the opener of the three-match series by seven runs at the Arnos Vale Stadium on December 16, 2024. This win not only marked Bangladesh's first away victory against the West Indies but also came on Bangladesh's Victory Day, making it even more special.
After being whitewashed 3-0 in the preceding ODI series, the Bangladeshi team was hungry for redemption, and it showed as they entered the T20I series with determination. Asked to bat first, Bangladesh had a rocky start. Their batting order crumbled rapidly, leaving them at 30 for 3 early on. The West Indies’ bowlers applied pressure with Akeal Hosein dismissing opener Tanzid Hasan for just 6 runs, closely followed by Litton Das who fell for a duck, and Afif Hossain who managed only 8.
Yet, just when it looked like disaster was looming for the ‘Bangla Tigers’, Soumya Sarkar and Jaker Ali put their heads down and formed a solid partnership of 57 runs. Sarkar notched up 43 runs off 32 balls, and Ali contributed with 27 runs from 27 balls. Their stable performance brought some confidence back to the innings. The momentum shifted as Shamim Hossain entered the fray, hitting 27 off just 13 balls, and together with Mahedi Hasan, who remained unbeaten on 27, they led the team to finish their innings at 147 for 6.
While it seemed Bangladesh had managed to amass a defendable total, little did they know the challenges awaiting them during the West Indies' chase. Bowler Mahedi Hasan emerged as the star of the show, displaying exceptional skills with the ball and quickly decimishing the West Indies top order. Hasan’s incredible figures of 4 for 13 caused the home side's batting line-up to collapse, leaving them staggering at 61 for 7 within 12 overs.
Despite the early setbacks, West Indies captain Rovman Powell showcased resilience, scoring 60 off just 35 balls and giving the hosts hope as they chased down the target. Powell's impressive innings included four sixes and five fours, reviving the match temporarily. Together with Romario Shepherd, who chipped in with 22 runs, they formed the highest 8th wicket partnership for West Indies T20 history, amassing 67 runs. Just when it appeared the Windies might pull off the impossible, Bangladesh held their nerve.
With only 20 runs required off the last 18 balls, Taskin Ahmed’s brilliant over, where he conceded just two runs and claimed the wicket of Shepherd, proved to be the turning point as it swung the momentum back to Bangladesh. Hasan Mahmud delivered the final over with precision, taking out both Powell and Alzarri Joseph just before the final ball, ensuring the home side was bowled out for 140.
Mahedi Hasan’s pivotal role was acknowledged as he was awarded Player of the Match. He stated, "We tried to bowl straight and stick to our process. I enjoyed this wicket. Very good knock from Shamim. It was a clutch moment for our team." His efforts have been viewed as monumental for the Bangladeshi team, spotlighting their competitive spirit.
Reflecting on the match, Litton Das, Bangladesh’s captain, expressed relief and pride at their performance, commenting, “We knew with the bowlers we had, we could fight (with our score). It has been such a long tour. Good start (to win the first T20I).” On the flip side, Rovman Powell acknowledged their shortcomings, stating, “It is just a matter of us assessing it a little earlier. We could have consolidated a little bit more.”
This match serves not only as Bangladesh's triumphant return to form but also as the beginning of what they hope will be a successful series against the West Indies. The historic victory showcases their ability to perform under pressure, raising anticipation for the upcoming matches. With the cricketing world now keeping close watch, the next T20I presents another opportunity for the Bangladeshi team to build on this promising start and perhaps secure the series against the West Indies.
