USA Stun Bangladesh in Historic T20 Series Win: A David vs Goliath Upset Rocks Cricket World
The cricketing world is reeling after the unranked United States National Cricket Team pulled off a sensational upset, defeating Bangladesh – a much-fancied Test nation – in a three-match T20I series held in Houston, Texas. The series win, clinched by the USA with a dominant six-run victory in the second T20I on Thursday, has sent shockwaves through the cricketing fraternity and sparked jubilation among American cricket fans.
Chasing a modest target of 145 runs set by the USA, Bangladesh's batting lineup faltered under pressure. Openers Soumya Sarkar and Tanzid Hasan were dismissed cheaply, leaving the visitors in a precarious position early on. Despite a brief period of stability courtesy of Najmul Hossain Shanto (36), a calamitous mix-up led to Shanto's dismissal, triggering a collapse for Bangladesh.
Experienced campaigners like Mahmudullah (3) and Shakib Al Hasan (11) failed to provide any resistance, succumbing to the bowling attack spearheaded by the impressive Ali Khan (3/25) and supported by Saurabh Netravalkar (2/22) and Shadley van Schalkwyk (2/20). Bangladesh were eventually bowled out for a mere 138 runs, handing the series win to the USA on a silver platter.
Earlier in the day, the USA batsmen had displayed commendable grit and determination, posting a competitive total of 144 runs on the board. Captain Monank Patel led from the front with a well-constructed 42 runs off 38 deliveries, while openers Steven Taylor (31) and Aaron Jones (35) provided valuable contributions. Bangladesh's bowling attack, featuring established names like Shoriful Islam (2/24), Mustafizur Rahman (2/28), and Rishad Hossain (2/25), shared the spoils but couldn't prevent the USA from setting a challenging target.
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The unexpected series win by the USA has become a major talking point on social media. Cricket enthusiasts worldwide expressed their surprise and awe at the American team's accomplishment.
Fans took to platforms like Twitter to celebrate the historic victory, with some even labeling it as "the darkest day in Bangladesh cricket history." The contrasting fortunes of the two teams – the unheralded Americans exceeding expectations and the more fancied Bangladeshi team falling short – has fueled the narrative of an underdog triumph.
USA HAVE DONE IT!!! THEY HAVE WON THE SERIES. DARKEST DAY IN BANGLADESH CRICKET HISTORY.
— Saif Ahmed ?? (@saifahmed75) May 23, 2024
There is no way to hide for this team anymore. pic.twitter.com/XpW5TF2Sds
Shakib al Hassan - playing this series against USA, but I would say this is not ideal preparation".
— Nibraz Ramzan (@nibraz88cricket) May 23, 2024
Today - USA Beat Bangladesh 2-0 and Won the T20I series. #USAVBAN pic.twitter.com/uF979uWYeX
Bangladesh cricket is beyond finished. They can't even win against USA. pic.twitter.com/il4P5T2Dx9
— R A T N I S H (@LoyalSachinFan) May 23, 2024
USA HAVE BEATEN BANGLADESH!!!! ??
— Saif Ahmed ?? (@saifahmed75) May 21, 2024
They faced Bangladesh for the first time in their T20I cricket history and they have beaten them. Corey Anderson who was buried years ago from international cricket rose from the ashes and won it for USA.
Bangladesh cricket, please hide… pic.twitter.com/PHnnxGgjIS
USA Defeated Bangladesh again
— ٰImran Siddique (@imransiddique89) May 23, 2024
I am seriously scared now pic.twitter.com/xwibHddOYt
This series win could mark a significant turning point for cricket in the United States. The sport, with its growing popularity amongst immigrants and a dedicated fan base, has been steadily gaining traction in the country. The USA's success against a well-established cricketing nation like Bangladesh could provide a much-needed boost to the sport's growth and inspire future generations of American cricketers.
For Bangladesh, this series defeat serves as a harsh wake-up call before the upcoming T20 World Cup. The team's inability to handle pressure situations and chase a relatively modest target has exposed vulnerabilities that need immediate attention. The Bangladesh Cricket Board will have to address these shortcomings and strategize effectively to navigate the challenges that lie ahead in the World Cup.
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