St Vincent: In a thrilling showdown that summarised the drama of Group D, Bangladesh secured their place in the Super 8 of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024 by defending the lowest total in the tournament's history.
Facing a must-win situation against Nepal, the Tigers showcased a nerve-wracking yet historic performance to progress to the next round alongside South Africa.
The match began with a shocker as Nepal's Sompal Kami dismissed Tanzid Hasan on the first ball, setting the tone for a gripping contest. Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto was bowled in the very next over, plunging Bangladesh into early despair.
Nepal's bowlers dominated the Powerplay, reducing Bangladesh to 31/4 by the sixth over. Despite a brief recovery attempt, a mix-up led to Mahmudullah's run out, and the Tigers found themselves struggling at 57/5 at the halfway mark.
Rohit Paudel's sharp off-spin claimed the vital wicket of Shakib Al Hasan, and Sandeep Lamichhane's historic two-wicket burst, including his 100th T20I scalp, further crippled Bangladesh. The Tigers were eventually bowled out for 106, thanks to a late 18-run last-wicket stand that proved crucial.
Nepal's pursuit of 107 started shakily, with Tanzim Hasan Sakib's double-wicket maiden in the third over intensifying the pressure. Nepal was reeling at 24/4 by the end of the Powerplay.
Kushal Malla and Dipendra Singh Airee steadied the innings, pushing Nepal to 42/5 at drinks. Despite Malla's dismissal in the 17th over, a timely six from Airee kept hopes alive. With 22 needed off the final 12 balls, Mustafizur Rahman delivered a match-defining wicket-maiden in the 19th over, sealing a 21-run victory for Bangladesh.
Bangladesh's victory was a testament to their resilience and tactical acumen, marking the lowest total ever defended in a T20 World Cup match. As the Tigers advance to the Super 8, the win underscores the unpredictable and thrilling nature of T20 cricket.