Bangladesh finally snapped their four-match T20I losing streak with a nerve-testing four-wicket victory over Ireland, drawing the three-match series 1-1 and setting up a tantalising decider in Chattogram on Saturday.
The night belonged to captain Liton Das, whose fluent 57 off 37 balls – complemented by two sharp stumpings – laid the foundation for a successful chase of Ireland’s 170 for 6.
Ireland had threatened a far bigger total earlier in the evening. Paul Stirling blasted 29 off 14, and Tim Tector’s busy 38 kept the visitors moving at over 10 an over in the Powerplay. Lorcan Tucker’s 41 off 32 hinted at a late surge, but Bangladesh’s spinners dragged the game back superbly.
Mahedi Hasan was outstanding, claiming 3 for 25 and removing both Tectors along with Ben Calitz. His spell halted Ireland’s acceleration and prevented what once looked like a 200-plus finish.
Chasing 171, Bangladesh started brightly. Parvez Hossain Emon struck 43 off 28, combining with Litton for a 60-run stand that gave the hosts control.
Liton played with timing and intent, picking off anything in his arc for sixes over midwicket and cover. His half-century came off just 34 balls, and Bangladesh seemed to be cruising.
But T20 cricket rarely travels in straight lines. Mark Adair and Gareth Delany broke through as wickets tumbled in a cluster: Liton, Saif Hassan, Towhid Hridoy, and Nurul Hasan fell within 23 runs. From 138 for 2, the Tigers slid to 157 for 6, suddenly needing 14 from 10 balls.
Enter Mohammad Saifuddin, returning to the XI with a point to prove. His pulled four first ball calmed nerves, and his six and four off Adair in the penultimate over swung the momentum back Bangladesh’s way.
With just 3 needed in the final over, Mahedi Hasan finished the job with a crisp extra-cover boundary off Josh Little, sealing the chase with two balls to spare.
Liton, named Player of the Match, summed up the mood simply: “These are the tight games we want to win. Proud of how the boys fought under pressure.”
With the series level and Bangladesh rediscovering their grit, Chattogram delivered a contest worthy of the fans – full of twists, character, and a captain’s calming touch.
