On Saturday, India vs Bangladesh by 60 runs in the T20 World Cup 2024 warm-up match. The spotlight firmly rested on Rishabh Pant, whose blistering fifty not only bolstered India’s innings but also cemented his status as the premier wicketkeeper-batter for the ICC spectacle. Pant’s aggressive 53 off 32 balls, studded with four boundaries and an equal number of sixes, was a testament to his resilience following a horrific car accident in December 2022. After choosing to bat first in the game between India and Bangladesh, Hardik Pandya’s unbeaten 40 off 23 balls led India to an impressive total of 182 for five.
Bangladesh, in their pursuit, faltered significantly, managing a mere 122 for nine. Arshdeep Singh, rediscovering his rhythm, spearheaded India’s bowling with aplomb. His incisive spells decimated Bangladesh’s top order, leaving them reeling at 41 for five. Despite a brief resurgence led by Mahmudullah Riyaz, who retired after scoring 40 off 28 balls, and Shakib Al Hasan’s 28, the Bangladesh innings lacked the momentum to chase down the target in the ind vs ban clash.
Arshdeep’s prowess was on full display as he dismissed Soumya Sarkar and Litton Das during the Power Play, complemented by Mohammed Siraj’s crucial wicket of Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto. The Indian bowlers adeptly exploited the sluggish pitch and outfield conditions, with Shivam Dube also chipping in with two wickets for 11 runs.
For Bangladesh, the defeat was a continuation of their lackluster build-up to the T20 World Cup 2024, having recently lost a T20I series to the USA. Their batting frailties underscored the brilliance of Pant and Pandya’s earlier efforts, which had lifted India to an above-par score on a challenging wicket.
Pant’s innings, in particular, stood out. Making his competitive return in IPL 2024 with an impressive 287 runs from 13 matches for Delhi Capitals, Pant brought the same flair to this match. His knock included audacious shots like a flick to fine-leg off Soumya and a one-handed six off Mahmudullah Riyaz, underlining his aggressive yet effective batting style. Pant’s strategic 53 came off 32 balls, punctuated by consecutive sixes off Shakib Al Hasan, before he retired.
Hardik Pandya’s explosive batting provided the finishing touch India needed. Pandya, after being dropped on 26, unleashed three consecutive sixes off left-arm spinner Tanvir Islam, showcasing his power and precision. His innings not only solidified India’s total but also boosted his confidence after a scrutinized season as Mumbai Indians’ captain.
Bangladesh faced another setback as Shoriful Islam walked off injured just before bowling the final delivery of the innings, with Tanzim Hasan completing the over. This injury scare added to their woes in a match that highlighted the chasm between the two teams’ preparations.
As India gears up for the tournament proper, starting June 5 against Ireland, this comprehensive victory has ticked numerous boxes for the team management. Pant’s ascendancy as the first-choice wicketkeeper-batter and Pandya’s return to form are significant positives as India eyes glory in the T20 World Cup 2024.
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