NED vs BAN (1st T20I) – Highlights
Bangladesh began their T20I series against the Netherlands with a commanding performance in the first match at Sylhet, securing an eight-wicket victory in just 13.3 overs. Chasing a modest target of 137, Bangladesh made light work of the Netherlands’ total of 136 for eight, displaying a clinical combination of power hitting and disciplined bowling. Taskin Ahmed emerged as the star of the day, producing a game-changing spell with the ball and earning both the Player of the Match and Cricinfo MVP honors.
The NED struggled to build momentum during their innings, with their top order unable to capitalize on starts. Max O’Dowd was the standout performer for the Dutch side, scoring 23 off 15 balls before falling to Taskin Ahmed. Despite Nidamanuru’s determined 26-ball 26, his teammates couldn’t contribute enough to make an impact. Scott Edwards, the Netherlands captain, managed 12 runs off 7 balls, while Vikramjit Singh could only muster 4 runs, highlighting the team’s struggle against Bangladesh’s disciplined bowling attack. Extras also played a minor but important role, contributing seven runs to the total score.
BAN bowling was led by Taskin Ahmed, who picked up four crucial wickets for just 28 runs in his four overs. Mustafizur Rahman added to the pressure by claiming the wicket of Shariz Ahmad for 19 runs, while Saif Hassan’s two wickets at an economy of nine runs per over further kept the Dutch innings in check. Mahedi Hasan and Shoriful Islam bowled with control but were unable to claim wickets, allowing Taskin and Mustafizur to dominate. Rishad Hossain’s economical two overs, giving away only 16 runs, played a key role in controlling the middle phase.
In reply, Bangladesh’s batting lineup displayed exceptional intent and composure. Parvez Hossain Emon got the team off to a brisk start with 15 runs from nine balls, but Tanzid Hasan’s contribution of 29 runs from 24 balls ensured the momentum was maintained. The real fireworks came from captain Litton Das, who scored a blistering 54 off just 29 balls, and Saif Hassan, who remained unbeaten on 36 from 19 deliveries.Bangladesh’s batting depth shone through as their explosive duo finished the game early, leaving 39 deliveries unused.
Their strategy balanced bold hitting with calculated choices, making the run-chase seem effortless. Aryan Dutt and Kyle Klein provided sporadic resistance with their bowling, but they were unable to prevent the Bangladeshi batters from taking control. Daniel Doram and Paul van Meekeren bowled economically but lacked the breakthroughs required to slow the chase. The Dutch team’s inability to contain the middle order allowed Bangladesh to chase down the target in just 13.3 overs, underlining the dominance of the home side.
The victory sets a strong tone for the series and boosts Bangladesh’s confidence heading into the remaining matches. The home team’s combination of fiery pace bowling, sharp fielding, and aggressive batting proved too much for the visiting side. Taskin Ahmed’s all-round impact, particularly his match-turning spell with the ball, was pivotal in Bangladesh’s win, and the synergy between the experienced and young players ensured a commanding performance.
Netherlands vs Bangladesh Scoreboard
Netherlands – 136/8 (20)
Bangladesh – 138/2 (13.3/20)
Result – Bangladesh won by 8 wickets (with 39 balls remaining)
Player of the Match – Taskin Ahmed
Taskin Ahmed
NED vs BAN Playing XIs
Netherlands | Scott Edwards (c), Max O’Dowd, Vikramjit Singh, Teja Nidamanuru, Shariz Ahmad, Noah Croes, Kyle Klein, Tim Pringle, Aryan Dutt, Paul van Meekeren, Daniel Doram. |
Bangladesh | Litton Das (c), Towhid Hridoy, Parvez Hossain Emon, Tanzid Hasan, Saif Hassan, Mahedi Hasan, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Shoriful Islam, Rishad Hossain, Jaker Ali. |
