Bangladesh Defeats India in Asia Cup 2023 Super Four Match
Bangladesh’s captain Shakib Al Hasan expressed confidence in his team’s ability to be a “dangerous side” in the upcoming World Cup after defeating India by six runs in a thrilling Asia Cup encounter. Despite India’s loss, they had already secured a place in the final against Sri Lanka, resulting in the team resting key players including Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah. Bangladesh’s victory was sealed by Mustafizur Rahman’s three wickets, as well as debutant Tanzim Hasan Sakib and Mahedi Hasan’s two wickets each, which contributed to India’s dismissal for 259 runs.
In his post-match comments, man of the match Shakib expressed his confidence in Bangladesh’s chances in the World Cup, stating, “I think we have got a very good team for the World Cup. Lot of injuries, and players coming in and going out didn’t help during this Asia Cup. I think we will be a dangerous side in the World Cup.”
A Solid Partnership and Late Contributions Secure Bangladesh’s Win
Opting to bowl first, India aimed to test Bangladesh’s batting skills under the lights, which had proven challenging in the Sri Lanka leg of the tournament hosted by Pakistan. Bangladesh encountered a rough start, losing four wickets with only 59 runs on the board. However, a crucial 101-run partnership between Shakib Al Hasan and Towhid Hridoy helped rebuild the innings. Hridoy contributed with a solid half-century, while Shakib displayed his form with a well-earned 80 runs. Despite a strong fight from India’s bowlers, lower-order contributions from Nasum Ahmed and Mahedi Hasan propelled Bangladesh to a total of 265-8.
India’s Chase Falls Short Despite Shubman Gill’s Century
In response, India faced an early setback as skipper Rohit Sharma was caught out off Tanzim Hasan Sakib’s accurate bowling in the first over itself. Opener Shubman Gill, however, stood firm and built crucial partnerships with KL Rahul and Suryakumar Yadav. Gill’s impressive knock of 121 runs, which included eight fours and five sixes, earned him a well-deserved century. Despite his valiant effort, Bangladesh’s consistent breakthroughs meant that India fell six runs short of the target. Axar Patel made a late surge with a 34-ball 42, but ultimately, the Indian innings concluded at 259 runs in 49.5 overs.
Bangladesh Ends Asia Cup on a High Note
With this victory, Bangladesh concluded their Asia Cup campaign with two wins, one of which came in the group stage against Afghanistan. The team displayed their resilience and determination, showcasing their potential as a formidable force in the upcoming ODI World Cup. Meanwhile, Pakistan, led by Babar Azam, faced disappointment as they crashed out of the tournament after losing a knockout Super Four contest to Sri Lanka at the same venue.
