Image: Shamim Hossain led Bangladesh to their first ever T20I series win / © Crictoday
Shamim Hossain played a match-winning role in Bangladesh’s 27-run victory over West Indies in the second T20I at Arnos Vale Ground, St Vincent, propelling the visitors to a 2-0 series lead. His blistering 35* off 17 balls, which included two fours and two sixes, helped Bangladesh set a competitive target of 130, a total that would eventually prove enough to secure the win.
Bangladesh, having posted a modest total, faced challenges against a spin-heavy West Indies attack. However, it was Hossain’s late fireworks that changed the course of the game. His 41-run stand with Tanzim Hasan Sakib, who remained unbeaten on 9, lifted Bangladesh to a defendable total after struggling early in the innings.
Speaking after his Player of the Match award, Shamim reflected on his journey, stated:
I always think that however situation the team is in, if I play well, we’ll reach a decent total. I always have the positive thinking. We won T20 series in West Indies and that’s a huge achievement.
Having made his comeback with a solid 27 in the opening T20I, Shamim emphasized that his time away from the team didn’t deter his confidence. He further added:
I don’t think that much (on when I will make a comeback when I was away from the team) and I just tried to keep a positive mindset and stay happy… I was confident I would make a comeback.
With Bangladesh now on the brink of a series victory, Shamim’s all-around performance has been a key factor in their success and could be a major asset as they head into the final match.