The West Indies cricketers drew first blood in their three-match T20 International series against Bangladesh, securing a 16-run victory early Monday morning Jamaica time in Chattogram.
After winning the toss and electing to bat, the Caribbean side posted a competitive 165 for 3 from their 20 overs, thanks to solid contributions throughout the innings. Opener Alick Athanaze made 34 from 27 balls in a 59-run opening stand with Brandon King, who added 33 against Bangladesh’s pace spearhead Taskin Ahmed, who finished with figures of 2 for 29.
The foundation set by the top order paved the way for a crucial unbroken fourth-wicket partnership between Man of The Match Rovman Powell and captain Shai Hope, which proved decisive in the outcome. Powell, marking his 100th T20 International appearance, blasted 44 not out from 28 deliveries, striking four sixes and a four, while Hope anchored the innings with an unbeaten 46 from 26 balls. Together, they added 83 runs to lift the West Indies to a competitive total.
In reply, Bangladesh fought hard but were bowled out for 149 in 19.4 overs, with Tanzim Hasan Sakib top-scoring with 33. The West Indies bowling attack delivered a disciplined performance, led by Jayden Seales and Jason Holder, who each claimed three wickets — Seales finishing with 3 for 33 and Holder 3 for 32. Spinner Akeal Hosein provided crucial support with 2 for 22, while Khary Pierre (1 for 33) and Romario Shepherd (1 for 29) chipped in with a wicket apiece.
The victory gives the Windies a 1–0 lead heading into the second and penultimate match of the series, which will also be played in Chattogram on Wednesday.
