Mahmud's heroic last over helps Tigers survive Powell's blitz

Mahedi bags a career-best 4 for 13

FE Team | Published: December 16, 2024 23:34:07

Bangladesh secured a nail-biting 7-run victory over the West Indies in the first T20I at Kingstown, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series, report agencies.
Bangladesh thwarted Rovman Powell's stunning effort to power West Indies to an improbable win, after Hasan Mahmud defended nine runs in a heroic last over to seal a seven-run victory in the first T20I at the Arnos Vale Ground.
The capacity crowd were presented with a thrilling contest in West Indies' first international match in St Vincent in 10 years.
While defending 147, Mahedi Hasan's four-wicket haul reduced West Indies to 38 for 5 before Powell struck four sixes and five fours in his 35-ball 60, but he couldn't quite get them through to the end after falling in the last over. The victory came in the morning of Bangladesh's 54th Victory Day anniversary, commemorating the country's liberation from Pakistan in 1971, making the occasion even more special.
Mahedi Hasan was the star of the match, earning Player of the Match honours for his brilliant all-round performance. He contributed an unbeaten 26 runs with the bat and then dismantled the West Indies batting lineup with a career-best 4 for 13.
After being put into bat, Bangladesh posted a modest total of 147 for 6. Soumya Sarkar top-scored with 43 off 32 balls, while Shamim Hossain's quickfire 27 off 13 provided much-needed momentum at the death.
Mahedi played a crucial role in stabilising the innings, forging a vital partnership with Shamim. West Indies' Akeal Hosein was the best bowler for the hosts, taking 2 for 13 in his four overs. West Indies, chasing 148, were rocked early by Taskin Ahmed and Mahedi. By the 7th over, the hosts were reduced to 38 for 5, with Mahedi's four-wicket burst sending jitters through the batting order.