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In one of the most dramatic one‑day internationals in recent memory, West Indies overcame Bangladesh in a super‑over shoot‑out in Dhaka after both teams finished on 213. The match was dominated by spin, with all 50 overs of West Indies’ bowling and nearly all of Bangladesh’s delivered by spinners – a new record. Chasing 214, West Indies were cruising at 100 for 0, but collapsed to 169 for 7 before Shai Hope’s unbeaten 53 steered them to a tie. In the Super Over, Hope again rose to the occasion, edging the first ball for four and ensuring West Indies posted 10. Akeal Hosein then defended 11 despite beginning with two wides, dismissing Bangladesh’s batsmen and sealing a one‑run victory.
The match began with Bangladesh posting 213 for 7 on a turning pitch where strokeplay was challenging. Soumya Sarkar’s 45 anchored the innings, but it was Rishad Hossain’s late cameo – 39* off 14 balls with four sixes – that propelled them past 200. West Indies responded by opening the bowling with part‑time spinner Alick Athanaze and used spin exclusively throughout the innings. Gudakesh Motie’s left‑arm spin accounted for three wickets, while part‑timer Justin Greaves removed Tamim Iqbal. Bangladesh’s total looked competitive given the conditions, but West Indies’ openers exploited the powerplay, with Kjorn Ottley and Brandon King adding 100 for the first wicket before Ottley top‑edged a sweep.
The collapse that followed would have been fatal but for Hope’s composure. He shepherded the tail expertly, rotating strike and hitting timely boundaries. With two required off the final ball, Akeal Hosein top‑edged a sweep that was dropped on the midwicket boundary, allowing two runs and forcing the Super Over. In the decider, Hope and Hosein again combined: Hope’s edge and Hosein’s hustling singles were enough. Bangladesh’s response unravelled after Soumya Sarkar was run out first ball; they fell one short despite a last‑ball boundary from Towhid Hridoy. The West Indian camp celebrated exuberantly, while Bangladesh were left to rue missed chances and conservative batting.
The thriller emphasised the growing importance of spin in modern one‑day cricket and showcased the psychological intensity of Super Overs. For West Indies, the win levelled the series and provided confidence ahead of the final match. Coach Darren Sammy praised the team’s resilience and singled out Hope for his calmness under pressure. Bangladesh’s captain Shanto lamented the fielding lapse on the last ball of regulation and the decision not to send the big‑hitting Rishad Hossain out in the Super Over. Fans in Dhaka experienced heartbreak but also witnessed a spectacle that will be remembered for years.
