IND vs BAN: 1st T20I Review – Hosts secure a commanding victory over Bangladesh
India secured a commanding seven-wicket victory. Bangladesh, after being asked to bat first, struggled with the bat and were bowled out for a modest total of 127 in 19.5 overs. Their innings lacked momentum, with only Mehidy Hasan Miraz (35) and skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto (27) offering some resistance. Bangladesh’s batting fell apart due to regular loss of wickets, which Shanto acknowledged as a key issue in the post-match presentation, calling for a better plan for the next game.
India’s bowlers, led by Arshdeep Singh, were outstanding. Arshdeep took 3/14, delivering a match-winning performance, supported by Varun Chakaravarthy and debutant Mayank Yadav. Arshdeep credited his quick adaptation to the conditions for his success.
In response, India chased down the target in just 11.5 overs, thanks to powerful knocks from Hardik Pandya (39* off 16), Suryakumar Yadav (29 off 14), and Sanju Samson (29 off 19). Pandya’s late flourish with consecutive boundaries and a six sealed the win comfortably for India, who now lead the three-match series 1-0
Top performers of the match:
1. Arshdeep Singh delivered a stellar performance with the ball, taking 3 wickets for just 14 runs. His early strikes dismantled Bangladesh’s top order, dismissing both openers, Litton Das and Parvez Hossain Emon, within his first two overs. His disciplined bowling ensured Bangladesh couldn’t build momentum and set the tone for India’s dominance in the match.
2. After returning to international cricket, Varun Chakravarthy took 3 wickets for 31 runs. He made crucial breakthroughs, including dismissing the dangerous Towhid Hridoy, and helped restrict Bangladesh’s scoring. His clever variations troubled the Bangladeshi middle order, showcasing his value to the Indian bowling attack.
3. Hardik Pandya played a match-winning knock, scoring an unbeaten 39 off just 16 balls. Coming in when India had already established control, Pandya accelerated the chase with his aggressive stroke play, hitting boundaries at will. His quickfire innings ensured India reached the target comfortably, securing a seven-wicket win with plenty of overs to spare.
