West Indies outplayed Bangladesh in a thrilling series opener, seizing a 16-run victory in the first T20I at Chattogram. The match was packed with drama, brilliant catches, and telling performances by key players. Here is a detailed look at the turning points and standout contributions on both sides.news18+1
First Innings: West Indies Build Momentum
West Indies opted to bat after winning the toss on a surface that initially made run-scoring a challenge. The openers, Alick Athanaze and Brandon King, laid a solid if unspectacular foundation, navigating the Powerplay with a partnership that yielded 35 runs. Their disciplined approach was crucial, with both reaching the 30s before departing as Bangladesh’s bowlers exerted early control.hindustantimes+1
The match’s first key moment arrived when Shai Hope and Rovman Powell came together at the crease. The pair steadily built the innings before launching an 83-run partnership that changed the game’s momentum. Powell, marking his milestone 100th T20I, survived a nervy start and a dropped chance, but once settled, his power was evident. Facing 20 balls for just 7 runs at one stage, Powell backed himself—believing a single big shot could transform his rhythm. That confidence paid off in the death overs, where he targeted Rishad Hossain and Mustafizur Rahman for three massive sixes in the last over, ending unbeaten on 44 from 28 balls. Hope’s role was pivotal, scoring a slick 46 off 28 with composed strokeplay, ensuring West Indies finished their innings at an imposing 165/3.news18+1
Bangladesh’s brightest bowling was early, with Taskin Ahmed (2/36) taking vital wickets in the Powerplay, and Nasum Ahmed as well as Mustafizur Rahman keeping the scoring in check during the middle overs. However, Rishad Hossain (1/40) and the Bangladesh attack faltered under Powell and Hope’s assault, conceding 51 runs in the final three overs—a decisive swing.hindustantimes+1
Second Innings: Bangladesh’s Chase Unravels
With the dew setting in, Bangladesh started their chase positively. Tanzid Hasan found the boundary with crisp shots, but the West Indies attack soon shifted the tide. A crucial catch by Romario Shepherd gave Akeal Hosein confidence, and he struck twice in the Powerplay, dismantling the top order. Jason Holder and Jayden Seales joined the party, picking up wickets regularly. Within 10 overs, Bangladesh lost half their side, struggling at 41/4 and 77/6—notably, the inability to form partnerships proved costly.news18+1
A brief resurgence came from Tanzim Hasan Sakib and Nasum Ahmed, who launched a spirited counterattack against the West Indies bowlers. Sakib’s 33 (off 27 balls) and Nasum’s brisk 20 brought hope to the hosts, as they targeted crucial big overs. However, their dismissals at key moments left the tail with too much work. Despite some late resistance and inventive shots from Mustafizur Rahman and Taskin Ahmed, the chase ended with Bangladesh bowled out for 149 in the 20th over.hindustantimes+1
West Indies’ bowlers were consistently effective. Jason Holder topped the bowling chart with 3/31, mixing pace and length perfectly, while Jayden Seales (3/32) proved a constant threat. Hosein’s early double-strike weakened Bangladesh’s backbone, and Shepherd’s athletic fielding capped off a superb collective display. The fielding itself was a spectacle, with several catches in contention for “catch of the season,” highlighting West Indies’ sharpness and commitment in the field.news18+1
Match Turning Points
- Powell and Hope’s partnership: Their calculated acceleration shifted the game’s momentum and pushed West Indies to a winning total.hindustantimes+1
- Fielding brilliance: West Indies took outstanding catches, breaking partnerships and maintaining pressure.
- Powerplay wickets: Hosein, Holder, and Seales combined to dismantle Bangladesh’s top order, never allowing the hosts to settle.news18+1
- Death overs surge: Powell’s fireworks in the last three overs gave West Indies a psychological advantage going into the chase.
Captain’s Reflections
Shai Hope, the victorious skipper, praised his side’s adaptation to conditions and Powell’s attacking approach. He credited the bowlers’ execution and the team’s fielding for making his captaincy easier. Powell, named Player of the Match, revealed he was deeply motivated for his milestone game and trusted his process despite a slow start, emphasizing a belief in big moments.news18
Litton Das, Bangladesh’s captain, was candid in defeat, highlighting how rapid wicket losses in the Powerplay and missed opportunities derailed the chase. He emphasized the need for top-order responsibility and acknowledged the opposition’s superlative fielding, which tilted the balance.
Looking Ahead
With this win, West Indies draw first blood in the three-match T20I series. The teams will reconvene for the second match, with Bangladesh needing to address their batting frailties and West Indies hoping to seal the series. If the intensity of this opener is any indication, another gripping contest awaits.hindustantimes+1
