DHAKA, December 12, 2024 – Bangladesh delivered a commanding batting display in the third and final ODI against West Indies at Warner Park in Basseterre, St Kitts, posting an imposing total of 321-5. This performance, led by four half-centuries, underscores their determination to avoid a series whitewash after defeats in the first two matches.
The standout of the innings was Mahmudullah Riyad, who smashed an unbeaten 84 off 63 balls, laced with seven fours and four sixes. Impressively, this marked Mahmudullah’s fourth consecutive fifty and his third in the series, highlighting his consistency under pressure.
Opener Soumya Sarkar and stand-in captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz both contributed crucial knocks of 73 runs each, stabilizing the innings after an early collapse. Meanwhile, Jaker Ali played a pivotal role alongside Mahmudullah, scoring 62 not out and sharing an unbeaten 150-run partnership for the sixth wicket.
However, Bangladesh’s start was far from ideal. Openers Tanzid Hasan Tamim and Liton Das fell for ducks, leaving the team struggling at 9-2. The recovery began with a composed 136-run partnership between Soumya and Miraz, who paced their innings well on a good batting surface. Soumya’s brisk knock included six fours and four sixes, while Miraz’s innings ended in an unfortunate run-out.
The West Indies bowlers fought back momentarily when Gudakesh Motie dismissed Soumya, followed by Sherfane Rutherford’s removal of Afif Hossain for 15. But Mahmudullah and Jaker counterattacked with a blend of caution and aggression, accelerating in the death overs. Their onslaught yielded 61 runs in the final five overs, leaving the West Indies bowlers overwhelmed.
Among the bowlers, Alzarri Joseph stood out with figures of 2-43, providing crucial breakthroughs during the innings.
Chasing a daunting target of 322, the West Indies face a tough challenge on a pitch that appears favorable for batting. Bangladesh, buoyed by their strong finish, will aim to defend this total and end the series on a high note. Fans can expect an intense contest as the match unfolds.