After a disappointing start to the series, Bangladesh delivered a resounding performance in the second T20 International against Sri Lanka, securing a dominant 83-run victory to level the three-match series 1-1. The win sets up a winner-takes-all decider, and the mood in the Bangladesh camp, as expressed by batter Shamim Hossain, is one of renewed confidence and positive energy.
Bangladesh`s victory was comprehensive, showcasing both batting prowess and disciplined bowling. Posting a competitive total of 177 for 7, they then clinically dismantled the Sri Lankan batting lineup, bowling them out for just 93 in 15.2 overs. It was the kind of complete team performance that was sorely needed after the opening loss.
“First of all, we won the match, and that is the most pleasing thing,” Shamim stated after the game. “Now the series is level at 1-1, so this win was important for us. Now we have the chance to win the series, and hopefully, if we play well, we will win it.”
A significant factor in Bangladesh`s competitive total was the return to form of captain Litton Das. After a lean patch, Litton played a crucial innings of 76 off 50 balls, including five sixes. His effort was particularly vital as he arrived at the crease with Bangladesh in a spot of bother at 78 for 4. Sharing a crucial 69-run partnership for the fifth wicket with Towhid Hridoy, Litton provided the stability needed to build a formidable score.
Shamim highlighted the importance of this partnership: “Litton batted really well. It was a turning point because you need a good start early on, and because of that innings, we were able to finish strongly later. Sometimes, you have to slow things down a little. At that point, we needed a good partnership because we had strong batters to come later in the innings, and we can always catch up if we have wickets in hand. So that partnership between Litton and Hridoy was crucial.”
Shamim himself played a pivotal role in the death overs, unleashing a quickfire 48 off just 27 deliveries from his No. 6 position. Far from being concerned about batting lower down the order, Shamim expressed comfort and confidence in the role, viewing it as an opportunity to take responsibility for the team.
“I am not worried about my batting position. The spot I am batting in right now, I feel very confident there,” said Shamim. “Whenever I go out to bat, my plan is to stay positive. Someone has to take risks, and I want to take that responsibility for the team.”
Delving into his batting philosophy, Shamim revealed an interesting source of inspiration: legendary South African batter AB de Villiers. Known for his fearless, innovative, and positive approach across formats, de Villiers serves as a template for Shamim`s mindset in the high-pressure environment of T20 cricket.
“I like AB de Villiers` batting, and I always try to stay positive like him,” Shamim stated, channeling the spirit of `Mr. 360`. “T20 cricket is all about staying positive, and I feel that if I stay positive, I will do well.” It seems for Shamim, success in the shortest format is less about complex strategies and more about maintaining an unwavering, positive attitude, a simple yet effective philosophy borrowed from one of the game`s greats.
With the series now on the line, Bangladesh will look to carry this momentum and collective positive approach into the final match, aiming to complete a spirited comeback victory on home soil.
