Nasum’s spin magic seals the series for Bangladesh in Sylhet

Nasum Ahmed’s early breakthroughs and fiery spells from Taskin Ahmed and Mustafizur Rahman dismantled the Netherlands, bundling them out for just 103 in 17.3 overs. Chasing the modest target, Bangladesh cruised to a 9-wicket win with ease.

Nasum struck twice in the very first over, removing opener Max O’Dowd (8) and Teja Nidamanuru (0). Taskin then dismissed Vikramjit Singh (24 off 17), thanks to a sharp catch from Shakib Al Hasan. The Dutch middle order collapsed under pressure, with Mustafizur and Shakib tightening the noose. Mustafizur picked up skipper Scott Edwards (9) and Zulfiqar (2), while Shakib dismissed Shariz Ahmed (12). Saif Hassan’s direct hit removed Noah Croes (2), further denting the visitors.

Despite a fighting 30 off 24 from Aryan Dutt, the Dutch were bowled out for 103. Nasum finished with 3/21 in his comeback match in his hometown, Taskin took 2/22, Mustafizur bagged 2/18, while Mahedi and Shakib chipped in with one wicket each.

In reply, Bangladesh’s openers gave a flying start. Tanzid Hasan Tamim and Parvez Hossain Emon added 40 runs in the Powerplay. Emon fell for 23 (3 fours, 1 six), but Tanzid anchored the chase brilliantly. The left-hander smashed an unbeaten 54 off 40 balls, with 4 fours and 2 sixes. Skipper Litton Das supported him with 18* as Bangladesh reached the target in just 13.1 overs, sealing a commanding 9-wicket win.

With this victory, Bangladesh secured the three-match T20I series 2-0 with one match still to play at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium.