Refined approach pays big dividends
In what was a perfect example of how a stable start from the batsmen could lay the platform for a big total, Bangladesh did almost everything right as they posted their highest-ever T20I total of 211 for five while batting first against the West Indies in the second T20I in Mirpur yesterday.
The Tigers' team management opted to stick with the same eleven that was on the receiving end of an eight-wicket hammering in the first T20I in Sylhet, but the approach was completely different as the hosts banked on their strengths instead of trying to overpower their opponents.
There were no blistering hundreds or fifties as the Tigers sacrificed their overly-aggressive approach, displayed in the previous game, for a collective approach.
Liton Das's scorching 34-ball 60 was highlighted by clever improvised shots instead of raw power and a record unbeaten fifth-wicket 91-run partnership between skipper Shakib Al Hasan and Mahmudullah Riyad ensured the hosts finished their innings with a flourish.
Interestingly, that partnership came on the back of a mini-collapse which saw Bangladesh lose the wickets of Liton, Soumya Sarkar and Mushfiqur Rahim in the span of just 12 balls.
However, it was the momentum that was set right at the top which helped both experienced campaigners ensure a large total as they added 71 runs in the last five overs.
Liton adjusted to the pace of the pitch before opening up and starting to attack. The stylish right-hander struck three boundaries off Sheldon Cottrell, the hero of the previous game, with some proper cricketing strokes.
From a scoop to waiting till the last moment to smash a good length delivery through point, Liton took on the Caribbean bowling attack, even striking back-to-back sixes off West Indies skipper Carlos Brathwaite. The first was a gorgeous flick towards the fine leg boundary which was followed by a perfectly executed pull off a length delivery.
After Tamim departed with the score on 41, Liton, on a roll, cleared his front leg and perfectly timed a straight six to pacer Oshane Thomas, producing what was arguably the shot of the day. He hit another six off the next delivery, a scoop through fine leg.
Liton, who looked like he could well register the fastest fifty by a Bangladeshi when he was on 41 off just 16 deliveries, reached his fifty off just 26 balls, setting the stage for Bangladesh to compensate for their mistakes from the previous game.
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