In a thrilling display of cricketing prowess, Sanju Samson’s maiden T20I century propelled India to an imposing total of 297 for 6, marking their highest T20I score to date. This remarkable performance surpassed previous records and is second only to Nepal’s towering 314 for 3. It set the stage for a comprehensive 133-run victory over Bangladesh, allowing India to sweep the series 3-0.
Samson, showcasing exceptional skill and determination, blasted his way to 111 runs off a mere 47 balls. His innings was characterized by a blistering pace and precise shot selection, propelling the Indian side to a commanding position. Samson found an able partner in Suryakumar Yadav, who supported the innings with an explosive 75 off 35 balls. Together, they forged a 173-run second-wicket partnership in just 69 deliveries, which set the ground for India’s colossal total.
The innings concluded with quick-fire contributions from Hardik Pandya, who added a brisk 47 off 18 balls, and Riyan Parag, who chipped in with an aggressive 34 off 13 balls. Their cameo appearances ensured that the momentum continued till the end, with India hitting a staggering 25 fours and 22 sixes. The combination of skillful stroke play and strategic aggression kept the fans entertained and left Bangladesh’s bowling attack reeling.
Choosing to bat first on a lively Hyderabad pitch, India exercised caution during the first over, scoring only seven runs. However, the approach swiftly changed as Samson unleashed a flurry of four boundaries in a single over against Taskin Ahmed. This set the tone for what was to follow, as the Indian innings picked up rapid momentum. Tanzim Hasan managed to dismiss Abhishek Sharma early on, but Suryakumar Yadav’s immediate six signaled India’s intent. By the end of the PowerPlay, India’s score stood at an intimidating 82 for 1, putting them firmly in control.
The introduction of field restrictions failed to curb India’s assault. Samson reached his half-century off just 22 deliveries, taking full advantage of Rishad Hossain’s bowling.
. In one remarkable over from Rishad, Samson struck five consecutive sixes, accumulating 30 runs and sending the crowd into a frenzy. As the Indian total surged forward into uncharted territory, the partnership hit a milestone of 150 runs with Suryakumar also joining the run-fest.
Samson’s century came with a lofted four over Mahedi Hasan’s head, achieved in just 40 balls. He continued to dominate until miscuing a shot to deep square leg. Suryakumar Yadav followed suit shortly after, but by then, the stage was well set. The innings faced some resistance from Bangladeshi bowlers, notably from Tanzim, but Pandya and Parag ensured no let-up. Tanzim’s struggles continued as he endured a torrid night, further hampered by fielding errors that punctuated Bangladesh’s efforts.
The visitors fell drastically short in their chase, never truly posing a threat to India’s towering total. Mayank Yadav struck with the first ball to dismiss Parvez Hossain Emon, followed by Tanzid Hasan’s dismissal at short third-man. Najmul Hossain Shanto and Litton Das managed a brief counterattack, lifting hopes momentarily. However, Bishnoi’s tight, wicket-maiden over and Varun Chakravarthy’s economical spell stifled any rebuilding intentions.
The lone bright spot for Bangladesh came through Towhid Hridoy’s innings, where he fought bravely to register an unbeaten 63. A brief partnership with Litton Das offered some resistance but fell short in light of India’s massive total. Despite Hridoy’s resilience, Bangladesh could only scrape to 164 for 7 in their 20 overs, handing India a resounding victory.
Samson’s record-breaking innings and India’s clinical performance in all facets of the game provided an illustrious end to Mahmudullah’s T20I career, marking his farewell with a series sweep by the hosts. With this win, India demonstrated depth, versatility, and a potent combination of youth and experience, leaving a daunting legacy for opposition teams to reckon with in the shortest format of the game.