With just 5 runs needed off the final over and 6 wickets in hand, it seemed like a straightforward equation for Bangladesh. However, the contest took a turn for the dramatic at Bulawayo as Zimbabwe picked up 2 wickets off the first 3 balls delivered by Brad Evans, leaving the Tigers on the precipice of defeat.
High drama ensued on the fourth delivery when the ball struck all-rounder Mahedi Hasan on the pads, triggering a massive shout for LBW from the Zimbabweans. However, the umpire immediately signaled a ‘dead ball’ as a Zimbabwean fielder had moved across the batter’s line of sight just before the release. Capitalizing on the dramatic reprieve, Mahedi smashed a crucial boundary off the very next ball, helping Bangladesh chase down the 144-run target to seal a breathtaking 4-wicket victory. With this thrilling win, the Tigers secured the three-match T20I series 2-1.
Chasing 144, opening batsman Tanzid Hasan Tamim provided a solid foundation for the Bangladesh innings. Following the departures of Parvez Hossain Emon (24) and Towhid Hridoy (24), a flurry of quick wickets caused jitters in the dugout.
However, Tamim stood firm at one end, holding the innings together to steer his side home. The left-handed opener carried his bat through the innings, remaining unbeaten on a match-winning 66. It was his composed and responsible knock that allowed Bangladesh to absorb the late-game pressure and erupt into series-winning celebrations.
