After a thrilling but ultimately disappointing loss in the first T20 against Ireland, Bangladesh now has a much more achievable target in the second match.
In the series opener, Ireland posted a challenging target of 170 runs, and despite a solid 103-run opening partnership and a few dropped catches by Ireland’s fielders, Bangladesh fell short in the end.
But in the second T20, the scene is set for a comeback. Ireland managed to score 134 runs for 5 wickets, which means Bangladesh now needs just 135 runs to level the series and avoid losing it.
Ireland’s batting innings started off similar to the first match, as they scored 34 runs with one wicket down.
After the powerplay, they lost another wicket but failed to build on the early foundation like they did in the previous match when Gaby Lewis and Leah Paul turned the game in Ireland’s favor.
This time, the Irish batters struggled to find their rhythm. Orla Prendergast stood out with 32 runs from 25 balls, but other key players couldn’t make an impact.
Leah Paul, who was aggressive in the first match, was contained today, managing only 16 runs off 19 balls before being dismissed at short fine leg off Jahara’s delivery.
Laura Delany contributed with 35 runs off 25 balls, and after she was bowled out by Fahima in the 19th over, Rebecca Stokell chipped in with a quick 9 runs from just 4 balls. With that, Ireland finished their innings at 134 runs.
For Bangladesh, chasing totals around 134 isn’t unfamiliar territory.
The team has previously won three times in T20s when chasing scores of 134 or more, including a thrilling last-ball victory against Ireland back in 2018 in Dublin when they successfully chased down a 135-run target.
With a target within reach and their backs against the wall, Bangladesh will now look to avoid a series loss and bring their A-game to level the series in this crucial match.
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