IND vs BAN: What Happened Last Time When India Faced Bangladesh in T20 in Delhi?

As India prepares to face Bangladesh in the second T20I of their three-match series at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi on October 9, 2024, memories of their last encounter at this venue remain vivid. India leads the current series 1-0 after a comprehensive victory in Gwalior, but Bangladesh will be seeking redemption in New Delhi, where they made history almost five years ago on November 3, 2019.

A Historic Win for Bangladesh

Back in 2019, Bangladesh achieved their first-ever T20I win against India, ending an eight-match losing streak against their subcontinental neighbours. The match, held at what was then known as the Ferozeshah Kotla Stadium, saw Bangladesh chase down India’s total of 148 with three wickets to spare. This victory was a significant morale booster for Bangladesh, especially as it came on the heels of off-field controversies, including the ICC’s suspension of their star all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan.

India, led by stand-in captain Rohit Sharma, struggled to put up a challenging total after being put in to bat first. Despite a solid start from Shikhar Dhawan, who top-scored with 41 off 42 balls, the Indian innings never quite gathered momentum. Contributions from KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer were brief, while Rishabh Pant and Shivam Dube also failed to make a substantial impact. Crucial spells from Bangladesh’s bowlers, especially Aminul Islam (2 for 22) and Shafiul Islam (2 for 36), kept the Indian batting unit in check.

Mushfiqur Rahim’s Heroics Sealed the Deal

In response, Bangladesh’s chase was built around a steady knock from Soumya Sarkar and a match-winning performance from Mushfiqur Rahim. Rahim's unbeaten 60 off 43 balls, punctuated by a flurry of late boundaries, turned the tide against India. The decisive moment came in the 18th over when Mushfiqur targeted Khaleel Ahmed, smashing boundaries that brought the required runs down to single digits. With only a few runs needed in the final over, Mahmudullah finished off the chase with ease, sealing a historic win.

For India, missed opportunities proved costly. A dropped catch by Krunal Pandya in the 18th over, which allowed Mushfiqur’s shot to go for four, proved to be a turning point. Additionally, debutant Shivam Dube's inexperience was exposed in the final over, as Mahmudullah dispatched him for a six to finish the match.

As India and Bangladesh prepare for another showdown in Delhi, the 2019 encounter serves as a reminder that the Bangladeshi side can spring surprises. India will aim to maintain their momentum and seal the series, while Bangladesh will look to draw inspiration from their past triumph at this venue to level the series.