India secured an unassailable 2-0 lead in their three-match T20I series against Bangladesh with a dominant 86-run victory in New Delhi on Wednesday. Despite a slow start in the powerplay, India posted a formidable 221 for 9, leaving Bangladesh with a daunting chase. In response, Bangladesh struggled and could only manage 135 for 9, falling well short of the target.
The highlight of India’s innings was the explosive performance by 21-year-old Nitish Reddy, who smashed 74 runs off just 34 balls. Reddy’s powerful knock included seven sixes, most of which came off Bangladesh’s spinners. After a measured start, Reddy unleashed a flurry of sixes, particularly targeting Mahmudullah and leg-spinner Rishad Hossain. His maiden international fifty came off just 27 balls, and a 26-run over off Mehidy Hasan Miraz added to the fireworks.
Hardik Pandya contributed with a quick 32 off 19 balls, while Rinku Singh played a vital cameo, scoring 50 off 26 deliveries. Together, they ensured India hit a total of 15 sixes in their innings, giving Bangladesh little room to breathe.
Bangladesh’s chase got off to a rocky start as Arshdeep Singh dismissed Parvez Hossain Emon early, and Washington Sundar sent captain Najmum Shanto back to the pavilion. Varun Chakravarthy was the pick of the bowlers with 2 for 19, including the key wicket of Litton Das. The part-time spinners, Abhishek Sharma and Riyan Parag, also chipped in with wickets, keeping Bangladesh on the back foot.
Mahmudullah’s 41 was the top score for Bangladesh, but the visitors were unable to mount any significant resistance. India’s bowlers were clinical, securing an 86-run victory and taking a 2-0 series lead.
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