Bangladesh handed 197-run challenge in series-saving second T20I

Australia posted a formidable 196 for 5 in their allotted 20 overs against Bangladesh in the second T20I of the three-match series in Chattogram, setting the hosts a challenging target of 197 runs to level the series.

After winning the toss and electing to bat, Australia adopted an aggressive approach from the outset. Bangladesh, however, kept themselves in the contest with timely breakthroughs. Left-arm spinner Nasum Ahmed reached a significant milestone when he trapped Josh Inglis lbw, claiming his 50th wicket in his 50th T20I appearance.

Bangladesh struck again when Nahid Rana, playing his first international match on home soil since his debut, dismissed Cooper Connolly. The wicket was highlighted by a brilliant diving catch from Saif Hassan at slip. Mustafizur Rahman then removed captain Mitchell Marsh with a trademark cutter late in the powerplay, reducing Australia to 44 for 3.

With the visitors under pressure, Matt Renshaw and Tim David launched a counterattack that shifted the momentum decisively in Australia’s favour. The pair added a rapid 50-run partnership off just 27 deliveries, putting the Bangladeshi bowlers on the back foot.

David was particularly destructive, taking 19 runs from an over by Abdul Gaffar Saklain, including two sixes and a boundary. At the other end, Renshaw accelerated brilliantly, smashing three consecutive sixes off Rishad Hossain to bring up his half-century in just 29 balls.

Saqlain eventually broke the dangerous partnership by dismissing David for a blistering 45 off 26 deliveries. By then, however, Australia had already laid the foundation for a commanding total. Renshaw remained unbeaten and guided the innings through the closing stages, while Nasum added another wicket by trapping Nikhil Chaudhary lbw.

Nasum was Bangladesh’s most successful bowler with two wickets, while Mustafizur, Nahid Rana and Saklain claimed one apiece. Saif Hassan also impressed in the field with two outstanding catches.

Having lost the opening match and trailing 0-1 in the series, Bangladesh now face a stern challenge. To keep the series alive and restore parity, the hosts must successfully chase down 197 against a confident Australian side.