Bangladesh were bowled out for 127 in 19.5 overs in the first of three-match T20 International series against India in Gwalior on Sunday.
Mehidy Hasan Miraz, returning to T20Is after over 14 months, top-scored for Bangladesh with 35 runs. The rest of the batters struggled to contend with India’s disciplined bowling attack.
India won the toss and sent Bangladesh to bat on a fresh wicket at the Shrimant Madhavrao Scindia Cricket Stadium, which was hosting its first international match.
Bangladesh lost both openers, Parvez Hossain Emon and Litton Das, within the first three overs. Despite preserving wickets during the powerplay, Bangladesh couldn’t capitalize as runs remained scarce.
Litton was dismissed first after an unclear shot attempt, resulting in an easy catch for Rinku Singh. Towhid Hridoy, known for his power-hitting, scored just 12 runs from 18 balls, failing to make a significant impact.
Middle-order batters Mahmudullah Riyad and Jaker Ali also faltered. Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto lingered at the crease for 25 balls but could only muster 27 runs, appearing uneasy against the Indian bowlers.
Rishad Hossain briefly lifted hopes with a six and a four but departed shortly after, scoring 11 off five deliveries.
Arshdeep Singh led India’s bowling effort with three wickets for just 14 runs in 3.5 overs. Varun Chakravarthy, playing his first T20I since the 2021 T20 World Cup, also claimed three wickets, making a strong comeback.
MSH