In a historic T20I encounter, India secured a massive 133-run victory over Bangladesh. The match showcased India’s batting might, with Sanju Samson, Suryakumar Yadav, and Hardik Pandya leading the charge. India’s total of 297/6 came close to breaking the 300-mark in a T20I, falling just three runs short. Bangladesh’s response crumbled under pressure, managing only 164/7, which handed India one of its most comprehensive T20I wins.
This article provides a detailed breakdown of India’s batting masterclass, key moments of the match, and Bangladesh’s struggle in pursuit of the daunting target.
India’s Batting Fireworks: Samson, Suryakumar, and Pandya Shine
Samson’s Sublime Century
Sanju Samson orchestrated one of the most memorable innings in T20I cricket, scoring 111 off just 40 balls at a strike rate of 236.17. Samson began his attack early, unsettling the Bangladesh bowlers by hitting four consecutive fours off Taskin Ahmed. His shot selection and timing were exceptional, with several of his eight sixes exhibiting finesse rather than brute force. Samson’s most audacious moment came when he back-footed a slower ball over extra cover, nearly stepping on his stumps in the process. His century marked India’s second-fastest in T20Is and underlined his potential to shine on the international stage.
Suryakumar’s Creative Batting Display
Suryakumar Yadav, known for his innovative stroke play, played an excellent supporting role in the 173-run second-wicket stand with Samson. Yadav’s 75 off 42 balls included a carved six over backward point, defying conventional cricket logic. During the powerplay, he repeatedly pulled balls to areas behind square, taking full advantage of Bangladesh’s loose deliveries. Yadav’s performance, though overshadowed by Samson’s brilliance, showcased his versatility and ability to complement aggressive partners at the crease.
The Power Finish: Pandya and Parag Pile on Runs
After Samson and Suryakumar’s dismissal, Riyan Parag and Hardik Pandya took over the mantle. Pandya scored a quickfire 47 off 19 balls, hitting four sixes, while Parag added crucial runs in just three balls. Pandya’s six over extra cover off Tanzim Hasan stood out, highlighting the depth in India’s batting lineup. The duo added 81 runs off just 31 balls, ensuring that India finished with a near-300 score despite losing two wickets in the final over.
Bangladesh’s Bowling Struggles
Bangladesh’s bowlers had no answer to India’s relentless onslaught. Tanzim Hasan Sakib picked up three wickets but conceded 66 runs in his four overs. The pressure led to numerous errors in the field, including two no-balls and missed run-out opportunities. Rishad Hossain, who had a tough outing in the previous match, again struggled with his length and went for 46 runs in just two overs.
India’s record-equalling 22 sixes and 25 boundaries made it impossible for Bangladesh to contain the flow of runs. Eighteen of the 20 overs yielded ten or more runs, underscoring the level of dominance India maintained throughout the innings.
India’s Bowlers Wrap It Up
Mayank Yadav Strikes Early
Bangladesh’s chase began disastrously as Mayank Yadav bowled Parvez Hossain Emon for a golden duck with a ferocious bouncer. The dismissal set the tone for Bangladesh’s faltering innings, with batters struggling to keep up with the required run rate.
Bishnoi’s Spin Magic and Hridoy’s Lone Fight
Ravi Bishnoi made an impact with the ball, taking 3/30 and dismantling Bangladesh’s middle order. Towhid Hridoy provided some resistance, scoring 63 off 42 balls with five sixes, but his efforts came too late. Mahmudullah could not make a significant impact, managing just 8 off 9 balls in what could be his final T20I appearance.
India’s bowlers ensured there were no slip-ups. Mayank Yadav and Bishnoi led the attack with precision, making it impossible for Bangladesh to get back into the game.
Key Moments and Takeaways
- Historic Batting Performance
- India’s total of 297/6 became the second-highest T20I score in history, marking one of the most dominant performances in the format.
- The 22 sixes hit during the innings tied the record for the most sixes by a Test-playing nation in T20Is.
- Bangladesh’s Bowling Collapse
- Multiple bowlers conceded over 50 runs in their spells, reflecting Bangladesh’s inability to cope with India’s power hitters.
- Two of the 26 dot balls bowled turned into no-balls, contributing to the mounting pressure.
- Sanju Samson’s Redemption
- Samson’s century relieved pressure on the wicketkeeper-batter, who had faced criticism for inconsistent performances at the international level.
- His extravagant celebrations after reaching both his half-century and century symbolized a release of pent-up emotions.
- Pandya’s Explosive Cameo
- Hardik Pandya’s quick runs in the death overs ensured that India finished on a high note. His back-foot six off a slower ball further exemplified the confidence and depth of India’s batting.
Conclusion: A Statement Victory
India’s 133-run victory against Bangladesh in this T20I serves as a testament to their batting prowess and bowling depth. Samson’s century and Suryakumar’s adaptability laid the foundation, while Pandya and Parag added the finishing touches. Bangladesh, overwhelmed by India’s relentless attack, found it impossible to recover from the early setbacks.
This victory not only boosts India’s morale but also sends a clear message to other teams about their formidability in the shortest format. The match will remain etched in cricketing history for its remarkable records and exceptional individual performances, making it a memorable end to India’s tour of Bangladesh.
