India’s relentless march in the ICC World Cup continued as they maintained their unbeaten record with a resounding seven-wicket victory over Bangladesh in a high-stakes encounter held in Pune.
Virat Kohli, the indomitable star of Indian cricket, took center stage, delivering a masterclass that saw him reach a sublime unbeaten century. His stellar performance not only showcased his batting prowess but also highlighted his determination to lead India to their third World Cup title, the second on home soil.
Earlier in the day, India’s spin wizards, Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja, orchestrated a top-order collapse for Bangladesh, significantly restraining them to a total of 256-8.
The contest began with Bangladesh openers, Tanzid Hasan and Liton Das, displaying impressive form and putting on a solid 93-run opening partnership. Tanzid’s innings of 51 marked his maiden one-day international fifty, while Liton Das contributed a valuable 66.
However, the match dynamics changed dramatically when Bangladesh, standing at 93-0, lost their way, sliding to 137-4.
The responsibility of leading the side in place of the injured Shakib Al Hasan fell on Najmul Hossain Shanto, who won the toss and chose to bat on a pitch that initially favored the batsmen.
The mid-innings crisis was handled by the experienced Mushfiqur Rahim and Mahmudullah, who contributed with 38 and a swashbuckling 46 runs, respectively, bolstering Bangladesh’s total. A spectacular six over extra cover off Jasprit Bumrah from Shoriful Islam marked the end of their innings.
Ravindra Jadeja, maintaining his economy, claimed 2-38 in his 10 overs, while Kuldeep Yadav, who initiated the breakthrough, secured 1-47. These spin maestros played a pivotal role in turning the game in India’s favor.
India, the proud hosts of the tournament, have been relentless in their pursuit of victory, securing a fourth successive win at this World Cup. In contrast, Bangladesh faced a challenging journey, having lost two of their three matches after their initial triumph against Afghanistan.
One unfortunate setback for Bangladesh occurred even before the match began when their key all-rounder, Shakib Al Hasan, was sidelined due to a thigh injury incurred during their prior encounter, an eight-wicket loss to New Zealand in Chennai.
India’s dominant display against Bangladesh further solidifies their position as a formidable contender for the World Cup title. With Virat Kohli leading from the front, the Indian team’s pursuit of glory continues with unwavering determination.