DHAKA, Dec. 16, (V7N)- Bangladesh celebrated a historic day both on and off the field, securing a thrilling seven-wicket victory against the West Indies in the first T20 International at Arnos Vale in Kingstown, St. Vincent. The win marked a stunning comeback for the Tigers, who had been whitewashed in the preceding ODI series.

Mahedi Hasan Shines in All-Round Performance

Mahedi Hasan emerged as the star of the match with a stellar all-round display, scoring a vital 26 not out off 24 balls before decimating the West Indies batting lineup with four wickets for just 13 runs in four overs. His brilliance underlined Bangladesh's resurgence in a format where they have often struggled.

Bangladesh Posts 147 After Early Setbacks

After being sent in to bat, Bangladesh faced early blows as Akeal Hosein reduced them to 30-3. Tanzid Hasan Tamim (6), captain Liton Das (0), and Afif Hossain (8) fell cheaply.

Soumya Sarkar led the recovery with a 32-ball 43, featuring two fours and three sixes. He partnered with debutant Jaker Ali Anik (27 off 27) for a crucial 57-run stand. Shamim Patwari’s quickfire 27 off 13 balls and his partnership of 51 runs with Mahedi propelled Bangladesh to 147-6.

Akeal Hosein and Obed McCoy each took two wickets to keep Bangladesh’s total within reach.

Defending a Modest Target

Despite a modest target, Bangladesh's bowlers put on a spirited performance. Taskin Ahmed dismissed both West Indies openers early, leaving them reeling at 47-6. Mahedi then tightened the screws, reducing the hosts to 61-7 in 11.4 overs.

However, Rovman Powell staged a brilliant counterattack, smashing a blistering 60 off 35 balls with five fours and four sixes. He was supported by Romario Shepherd (22), as the duo added a record 67 runs for the eighth wicket in T20Is for the West Indies.

Final Over Drama

With just 10 runs required off the last over and Powell still at the crease, the game seemed to be slipping from Bangladesh's grasp. But Hasan Mahmud held his nerve, dismissing Shepherd and Powell in consecutive deliveries to seal a famous victory. Mahmud finished with figures of 2-0-9-2, while Taskin Ahmed contributed 2-28.

Celebrations and Revival

The victory not only ended Bangladesh’s T20 losing streak against the West Indies but also gave the nation double cause for celebration on its Victory Day.

The second match of the series promises to be an intense battle as West Indies look to bounce back while Bangladesh aims to clinch the series.

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