"I don't think I have ever played such a pressure match in my career" - Najmul Hossain Shanto after BAN vs SL 2024 T20 World Cup clashÂ
Bangladesh skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto was a relieved man after his side just about managed to cross the line against Sri Lanka in the Group D 2024 T20 World Cup clash. Mahmudullah kept his nerve to help his side attain a narrow two-wicket win at the Grand Prairie Stadium in Dallas, Texas.
Bangladesh were terrific with the ball to restrict their subcontinent rivals to 124-9. They then had a tricky start with the bat, but repaired their innings to be in the driving seat for the two points. Towhid Hridoy scored three successive sixes off Wanindu Hasaranga to turn the game around, but Bangladesh complicated the proceedings by losing wickets.
Nuwan Thusara's double strike in the 18th over almost brought Sri Lanka close to the win, but Mahmudullah took on Dasun Shanaka in the penultimate over to wrap things up.
Bangladesh skipper Najmul Shanto expressed his relief at having secured the win and take a serious step towards the Super 8 stage.
"I don't think I have ever played such a pressure match in my career. I am just happy that we won the game," Shanto said in the post-match presentation.
Shanto was dismissed after scoring just seven runs off 13 deliveries. The skipper was one of the four wickets taken by Nuwan Thusara.
"Everyone gave their 120%" - Najmul Hossain Shanto on Bangladesh's win
The foundation for Bangladesh's win was laid down with the ball by youngster Rishad Hossain (3/22) and Mustafizur Rahman (3/17). Hossain was adjudged Player of the Match for his efforts.
Even with the bat, Hridoy (40) played a crucial hand, and so did Liton Das. The latter held one end with a gritty knock of 36 runs off 38 deliveries.
"The way everyone showed their body language, I am really happy," Najmul added. "Everyone gave their 120%. The last 10-15 days, we have been planning all the things, and fielding has been good. It wasn't easy (the chase) but it was a really good wicket. Litton was struggling in the last few weeks, he showed his class today. Hridoy is really courageous. Really happy with the crowd, I hope they'll come again."
Bangladesh are next scheduled to face South Africa at the Nassau County International Stadium in New York on Monday, June 10.