Windies Vs Bangladesh, 2018: Mashrafe Mortaza Lauds Batters After Guyana Win

Keeping the recent humiliation during Test series aside, Bangladesh began the limited-overs leg of their tour of Windies in style with a remarkable win. Having been thrashed in the two-match Test series, the Bangladesh Tigers roared back to form, in a format which has been their biggest strength since the last couple of years, particularly at home.

On a track that proved very sluggish throughout the course of the game, the visitors batted first and dealt with an early blow, losing opener Anamul Haque for a duck.

However, the veterans in the form of Tamim Iqbal and Shakib Al Hasan combined superbly for the second wicket, amassing 207.

However, many initially criticized the duo for their slow start and Iqbal, in particular, was too cautious before racking up his ton post 140 deliveries.

With 211 in 45 overs on board, Bangladesh needed a strong finish and this is what they exactly got.

Wicketkeeper-batsman Mushfiqur Rahim turned the heat on as he played a priceless cameo of 30 off just 11 deliveries. Iqbal too stepped up, eventually ending with 130 not out off 160 deliveries.

Bangladesh defended the target with ease in the end, winning the game by 48 runs.

Skipper Mashrafe Mortaza led by example as he bagged four wickets after conceding just 37 runs in 10 overs.

The Bangladesh skipper Mortaza then completely credited the finishing of his batsmen behind the win.

“Hopefully, we will carry on from here. We won here against South Africa in 2007. Batting was challenging but Shakib and Tamim set the tone for us. And Mushy played a blinder at the end,” said Mortaza.

When quizzed about his own form, Mortaza said his passion for the game was greater than the pain he had to go through for his injured knees.

“I have not bowled for long. The knee is alright. It is always hard but I enjoy on the ground. Just play with your heart as you are playing for your nation,” Mortaza said.