Bangladesh Seal Comfortable Series Sweep Over West Indies with Third T20 Win

Bangladesh wrapped up a dominant 3-0 series win over the West Indies with a comprehensive 80-run victory in the third T20I at the Arnos Vale Ground. It was a game where the visitors shone in every department, leaving the hosts searching for answers. With this win, Bangladesh completed their first T20I series sweep in nearly two years and ended their West Indies tour on a high note.

Jaker Ali was once again the star of the show, leading the charge with an unbeaten 72 off 41 balls. His innings was pivotal in pushing Bangladesh to 189/7, their highest T20 score in the West Indies. The bowlers then took over, restricting the home side to just 109, their lowest total against Bangladesh in T20Is. It was a game that highlighted the stark contrast between a disciplined Bangladesh unit and a struggling West Indies team.

A Strong Start from Bangladesh

Bangladesh’s batting got off to a flying start, thanks to Parvez Hossain Emon. Filling in for the injured Soumya Sarkar, Parvez attacked the West Indies’ bowlers from the get-go. His quick 39 off 21 balls included two sixes and four boundaries, setting the tone for a solid powerplay. By the end of the first six overs, Bangladesh had put up 54 runs, their best start of the series.

Litton Das, who has been short of runs recently, managed to contribute 14 before falling to Romario Shepherd. Mehidy Hasan Miraz added a handy 29, helping stabilize the innings in the middle overs. But it was Jaker Ali’s performance that truly stole the show.

Jaker Ali’s Heroics

Jaker’s innings was a mix of skill and determination, but it wasn’t without its drama. In the 14th over, a mix-up with Shamim Hossain led to both batters stranded at the striker’s end. Initially, it seemed Jaker was the one dismissed, and he walked off in frustration. However, the TV umpire intervened and ruled Shamim out instead, allowing Jaker to return to the crease.

Once back, Jaker wasted no time making the most of his second chance. He smashed six sixes and three boundaries, including a flurry of big hits in the final overs. Alzarri Joseph’s last over went for 25 runs, with Jaker hammering three sixes in four balls. His knock not only boosted Bangladesh to a competitive total but also provided a thrilling end to the innings.

West Indies’ Batting Woes Continue

The West Indies’ batting line-up never looked comfortable chasing 190. Taskin Ahmed struck early, trapping Brandon King lbw for a duck in the very first over. Johnson Charles and Nicholas Pooran showed some intent, but their efforts were short-lived. Pooran, who has struggled against Mahedi Hasan throughout the series, fell for 15, bowled off an inside edge.

By the end of the powerplay, the West Indies were 45/3, and their middle order crumbled soon after. Rishad Hossain’s sharp throw ran out Johnson Charles, and from there, the hosts never recovered. Rovman Powell, Roston Chase, and others fell cheaply, leaving the lower order with far too much to do.

Rishad Hossain Shines with the Ball

Rishad Hossain, playing a key role in the series, delivered another impactful performance. The legspinner picked up three wickets, dismissing Rovman Powell, Gudakesh Motie, and Alzarri Joseph. His spell of 3/21 in four overs included clever variations that kept the batters guessing. Rishad also contributed in the field with a sharp run-out, further underlining his all-round value.

Taskin Ahmed and Mahedi Hasan supported Rishad well, picking up two wickets each, while Tanzim Hasan Sakib chipped in with one. The bowlers ensured that the West Indies were bowled out for 109 in just 16.4 overs, sealing an emphatic win for Bangladesh.

Bangladesh’s Balanced Performance

This series win was a result of Bangladesh’s consistent all-round performances. Jaker Ali stood out as the top performer with the bat, while the bowling unit, led by Rishad Hossain and Taskin Ahmed, delivered under pressure in all three games. The team played with focus and discipline, capitalizing on the West Indies’ mistakes.

For the West Indies, it was a series to forget. Their batting struggled throughout, with no one managing to step up and anchor the innings. The bowling was inconsistent, and the fielding lacked sharpness, leaving plenty of room for improvement ahead of their next series.

Conclusion

Bangladesh’s 3-0 sweep over the West Indies is a significant confidence booster as they look to build momentum in T20 cricket. The visitors executed their plans perfectly, with both established players and young talents stepping up when it mattered. For the West Indies, this series will serve as a wake-up call to address their weaknesses and find ways to bounce back.

In the end, it was a well-deserved series win for Bangladesh, who outclassed their opponents in all facets of the game.