Shakib Al Hasan found his form with a superb half-century, and leg-spinner Rishad Hossain took two crucial wickets as Bangladesh edged closer to the Super 8s with a 25-run victory over the Netherlands in the T20 World Cup on Thursday. Chasing a target of 160, the Netherlands finished at 134 for eight in their 20 overs at the picturesque Arnos Vale Ground, hosting its first international match in 10 years. This result knocked Sri Lanka out of the tournament.
After winning the toss, the Netherlands opted to bowl first against Bangladesh at the Arnos Vale Stadium in Kingstown. Despite a half-hour delay due to rain, no overs were lost. Shakib Al Hasan became the cornerstone of Bangladesh’s batting, establishing a crucial 48-run partnership off 32 balls with Tanzid Hasan, helping the team recover after losing two early wickets in the powerplay.
Shakib’s return to form was marked by a 46-ball 64, leading Bangladesh to a competitive total of 159 for five. Tanzid Hasan added 35 off 26 balls, while Mahmudullah contributed 25 off 21 balls. In response, the Netherlands lost two wickets for just 32 runs, with the powerplay nearing its end. Vikramjit Singh (26 off 16 balls) showed promise with three sixes, but Mahmudullah had him stumped, leaving the Netherlands at 69 for three in the 10th over.
Sybrand Engelbrecht (33 off 22 balls) and captain Scott Edwards (25 off 23) added 42 runs for the fourth wicket before leg-spinner Rishad struck twice, shifting the game in Bangladesh’s favor. Left-arm seamer Mustafizur Rahman complemented Rishad’s efforts by dismissing Edwards, and Rishad returned to send Logan van Beek back cheaply, almost sealing the match for Bangladesh.
Needing 86 off 60 balls, the Netherlands attempted a fightback but crumbled under pressure, losing four wickets in quick succession. The trio of Taskin Ahmed (2/30), Rishad (3/33), and Mustafizur Rahman (1/12) delivered excellent performances, ensuring Bangladesh’s 25-run victory.
