Dhaka, Oct 18 (UNI) Rishad Hossain produced a sensational performance with the ball as Bangladesh crushed West Indies by 74 runs in the first ODI of the three-match series at Shere Bangla National Stadium here today.
The leg-spinner claimed a stunning six-wicket haul, decimating the West Indies batting lineup and leaving the visitors struggling at 133 all out in 39 overs.
Hossain’s remarkable spell, which included key scalps such as Brandon King (44), Keacy Carty (9), Roston Chase (6), and Alick Athanaze (27), set the tone for a comprehensive victory and a 1-0 lead in a three-match series for Bangladesh.
Sent into bat, Bangladesh suffered an early collapse, slipping to 8 for 2 inside the first three overs. Saif Hassan was trapped LBW by Romario Shepherd for 3, while Soumya Sarkar was caught at backward point by Roston Chase off Jayden Seales for 4.
Najmul Hossain Shanto, however, provided stability with a well-constructed 32, playing some elegant drives and pulls before falling to Khary Pierre’s leg-spin, trapped LBW after a review confirmed the decision.
Towhid Hridoy then anchored the middle order with a crucial 51-run knock, navigating Bangladesh through a tricky period. He reached his half-century with well-timed singles and a few delicate strokes, showing patience and composure.
Mahidul Islam Ankon, making his ODI debut, impressed with a resilient 46, including inventive sweep and scoop shots to keep the scoreboard ticking. His innings ended when he was bowled by Roston Chase, but it played a vital role in pushing Bangladesh past the 200-run mark.
The late overs belonged to Rishad and Tanvir Islam. Rishad Hossain smashed a quickfire 26 off just 13 balls, including two towering sixes and a four, giving Bangladesh a final push.
Tanvir Islam finished with an unbeaten 9, smashing a massive six over long-on, only to be run out attempting a risky second run on the penultimate delivery.
Taskin Ahmed also fell for a golden duck to Jayden Seales, while Mustafizur Rahman was run out in a mix-up, leaving Bangladesh at 207 all out in 49.4 overs.
In reply, West Indies were unable to cope with the disciplined Bangladesh attack. Rishad Hossain continued his magic, removing top and middle-order batsmen at regular intervals.
Tanvir Islam struck early to remove Shai Hope caught behind, while Mustafizur Rahman (2/16) chipped in with crucial breakthroughs. West Indies struggled to build partnerships, with only Brandon King offering resistance with 44 runs. Roston Chase (6), Keacy Carty (9), and Shai Hope (15) fell cheaply, leaving the visitors far short of the target.
Bangladesh’s win was built on a combination of early recoveries, a strong middle-order performance, and an unrelenting bowling display led by Rishad. His leg-spin, combined with supporting spells from Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Mustafizur Rahman, and Tanvir Islam, ensured West Indies were constantly under pressure.
The comprehensive victory gives Bangladesh a strong 1-0 lead in the series and confidence ahead of the second ODI, scheduled at the same venue on October 20.
With Rishad Hossain’s brilliance and contributions across the batting and bowling departments, Bangladesh showcased their growing strength in home conditions, particularly their potent spin attack, which proved decisive in dismantling a seasoned West Indies side.