Bangladesh defends 106 runs to secure historic win over Nepal in ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024. © Twitter (@DAILYSAMA4)
On June 16, 2024, in an exciting match at Kingstown, Bangladesh’s cricket team defeated Nepal with a remarkable triumph, winning by 21 runs while defending a low score of 106. This match will be remembered for its nail-biting moments and outstanding bowling performances that secured Bangladesh’s spot in the Super Eight stage of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024.
Match Summary
Bangladesh 106 (19.3) | |
| Shakib Al Hasan 17 (22) | Dipendra Singh Airee |
| Mahmudullah 13 (13) | Rohit Paudel |
| Rishad Hossain 13 (7) | Sompal Kami |
Nepal 85 (19.2) | |
| Kushal Malla 27 (40) | Tanzim Hasan Sakib |
| Dipendra Singh Airee 25 (31) | Mustafizur Rahman |
| Aasif Sheikh 17 (14) | Shakib Al Hasan |
Toss: NEP won the toss and decided to bowl
Stadium: Arnos Vale stadium
Result: BAN won by 21 runs
Player of the Match: Tanzim Hasan Sakib(BAN) – 4/7 (4) & 3 (5)
A Tough Start for Bangladesh
Opting to bat first, Bangladesh needed help finding their footing against Nepal’s disciplined bowling attack. The innings started on a shaky note as Sompal Kami struck on the very first ball, dismissing Tanzid Hasan. The early wickets continued to tumble, with Najmul Hossain Shanto and Litton Das falling cheaply, leaving Bangladesh 31 for four at the end of the powerplay.
Towhid Hridoy attempted to stabilize the innings with a couple of boundaries, but his departure for 11 off 14 balls added to Bangladesh’s woes. Contributions from Mahmudullah (13 off 13) and Shakib Al Hasan (17 off 22) provided some resistance, but Nepal’s bowlers, led by Kami (2 for 10), Sandeep Lamichhane (2 for 17), and Rohit Paudel (2 for 20), kept the pressure on. Eventually, Bangladesh was bowled out for 106 in 19.3 overs.
Tanzim Hasan Sakib The Game Changer
Defending a low total in T20 cricket is always challenging, but Bangladesh’s bowlers rose to the occasion spectacularly. Tanzim Hasan Sakib delivered an extraordinary opening spell, dismantling Nepal’s top order. His figures of 4-2-7-4, including two double-wicket maidens, were instrumental in reducing Nepal to 26 for 5.
Sakib’s precision and control were evident as he bowled 21 dot balls, the most in a men’s T20 World Cup match, creating immense pressure on the Nepali batters. His efforts earned him the well-deserved Player of the Match award and Cricinfo’s MVP recognition with 128.23 points.
Nepal’s Fightback and Bangladesh’s Resilience
Despite the early setbacks, Nepal showed determination, with Kushal Malla (27 off 40) and Dipendra Singh Airee (25 off 31) attempting to rebuild the innings. However, Mustafizur Rahman’s exceptional death bowling ensured Nepal couldn’t capitalize on the low target. Mustafizur’s spell of 4-0-7-3 included a crucial wicket maiden in the penultimate over, which sealed the victory for Bangladesh.
Shakib Al Hasan also chipped in with two wickets, wrapping up the Nepal innings at 85 in 19.2 overs and completing a team hat-trick with the final two wickets.
Historical Significance
This match marked a significant milestone as Bangladesh defended the lowest total in a men’s T20 World Cup. It was a testament to their bowling strength and mental toughness under pressure. The victory also highlighted Bangladesh’s growth as a formidable T20 cricket team capable of turning the game around with their bowling prowess.
Moving Forward
Bangladesh’s victory against Nepal has set the stage for an exciting Super Eight phase. The team’s ability to defend a low score will boost their confidence as they face stronger opponents in the upcoming matches. Fans and cricket enthusiasts worldwide will watch keenly to see if Bangladesh can continue their winning pattern and make a deep run in the tournament.
