Chattogram, October 27, 2025 – West Indies defeated Bangladesh by 16 runs in the first T20 International (T20I) at the Bir Shrestho Flight Lieutenant Matiur Rahman Cricket Stadium, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
After being second-best in the ODI leg, the Caribbean side bounced back impressively with a strong all-round performance. Rovman Powell, playing his 100th T20I, led from the front with a decisive unbeaten 44 off 28 balls, guiding his team to victory and earning the Player of the Match award.
West Indies’ Innings: Powell and Hope Shine
Batting first, West Indies posted a competitive total after a cautious start. The openers built a steady foundation of 35 runs in the Powerplay, with both contributing in the 30s. The momentum shifted dramatically with an 83-run stand between Powell and Shai Hope, who anchored the innings and accelerated in the death overs.
The duo smashed 51 runs in the final three overs, propelling West Indies past 160 runs. For Bangladesh, Taskin Ahmed and Rishad Hossain claimed wickets but were expensive, while Mustafizur Rahman and Nasum Ahmed kept things tight early on.
Bangladesh’s Chase Falters Under Pressure
Chasing the target, Bangladesh began confidently as the ball came onto the bat nicely under the lights. However, early wickets derailed their progress, slipping from 41/2 to 77/6. Tanzim Hasan Sakib and Nasum Ahmed provided resistance with scores of 33 and 20, but their dismissals left the tail with too much to do.
The West Indian bowling attack was clinical—Jason Holder and Jayden Seales took three wickets each, while Akeal Hosein and Khary Pierre provided vital breakthroughs. Romario Shepherd’s athletic fielding and a stunning catch further boosted the visitors’ defense.
Captains’ Reactions
West Indies captain Shai Hope praised his side’s adaptability, saying they assessed the conditions better and executed their plans well. Rovman Powell expressed satisfaction with his milestone performance, noting that patience and smart shot selection were key to his innings.
Bangladesh skipper Litton Das admitted that his side lost control in the middle overs and credited West Indies for their sharp fielding and composed bowling effort.
What’s Next
The second T20I will be played on October 29, 2025, at the same venue in Chattogram. West Indies will aim to seal the series, while Bangladesh will fight to level it and force a decider.
With both teams showing flashes of brilliance, cricket fans can expect another exciting clash under the lights at Chattogram.