Bangladesh set a challenging target of 296 for 8 in the decisive third ODI against West Indies in Mirpur. The strong foundation was laid by the opening partnership of Soumya Sarkar and Saif Hassan, who put together 176 runs off just 152 deliveries. Following their departure, Tawhid Hridoy and Najmul Hossain Shanto contributed with a crucial fifth-wicket partnership.
However, Bangladesh suffered a collapse in the latter part of their innings, losing four wickets in quick succession in the 44th over. Akeal Hosein was the key bowler for West Indies, picking up three wickets during this period. Despite the wickets falling rapidly, Nurul Hasan Sohan and Mehidy Hasan Miraz played brief but important innings to help Bangladesh reach a total of 296 runs.
The opening pair of Saif and Soumya missed out on individual centuries but set a record partnership for Bangladesh at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium. Saif departed after scoring 80 runs, while Soumya made 91 runs before getting out. Their partnership of 176 runs surpassed previous records and provided a solid foundation for Bangladesh.
After the strong start, Bangladesh faced a tough period as the run rate dropped when the openers departed. Although Shanto and Hridoy built a 50-run partnership for the fourth wicket, the scoring rate decreased. Eventually, Bangladesh finished their innings at 296 runs, with contributions from various batsmen.
In the final ODI against West Indies, Bangladesh’s openers Saif and Soumya displayed aggressive batting, scoring fifties and putting up a 100-plus opening stand. The Tigers aimed for a big total on a challenging pitch and managed to score freely against the West Indies bowlers. Despite the loss of wickets in the middle overs, Bangladesh posted a competitive total, setting up an exciting contest in the series-deciding match.