
Bangladesh emerged victorious in a thrilling One-Day International (ODI) encounter against Ireland, thanks to the batting heroics of Najmul Hossain Shanto and Mushfiqur Rahim.
The match, which had a delayed start due to rain, was reduced to 45 overs per side. Ireland set a formidable target of 320 runs, with Harry Tector’s magnificent 140 leading the charge.
In Bangladesh’s chase, opener Najmul played a crucial knock of 117, laying a solid foundation for his team. Despite early dismissals of Tamim Iqbal and Liton Das, Shakib Al Hasan provided some resistance with 26 runs.
However, it was the partnership between Najmul and Towhid Hridoy that swung the momentum back in Bangladesh’s favor. Their 131-run stand in just 17 overs put Bangladesh in a commanding position. Unfortunately, Hridoy departed for 68 just as Najmul reached his maiden ODI century after facing 93 balls.
With only 34 runs needed off 32 balls, Bangladesh seemed in control. However, the match took an unexpected turn with some late drama.
Mushfiqur survived a run-out chance, and in the final over, he hit a high full toss from Mark Adair to square leg, but it was deemed a no-ball. Mushfiqur capitalized on the opportunity and ramped the extra delivery over the wicketkeeper to the boundary, sealing a thrilling victory for Bangladesh.
The bowlers faced a challenging task in the match, given the slick and cold conditions along with the small ground. Ireland’s openers fell quickly, but Tector led the recovery with support from captain Andrew Balbirnie.
Tector reached his fourth ODI century off 93 balls and smashed a record 10 sixes in his innings. George Dockrell contributed an unbeaten 74 to guide Ireland to a competitive total.
Despite their efforts, Ireland fell short, and Balbirnie admitted that his team’s performance was not enough to secure victory.
With this win, Bangladesh took a 1-0 lead in the series, with the first match being abandoned due to rain. The final match of the series will be played on Sunday at the same venue in Chelmsford.
Bangladesh Tour of Ireland
Ireland Vs Bangladesh | 2nd ODIBangladesh won by 3 wickets
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