Bangladesh secured a thrilling six-run victory over an under-strength Indian cricket team in the last Super Four game of the Asia Cup. India, having already secured a place in the final against Sri Lanka, won the toss and elected to bowl first. Bangladesh posted a total of 265-8, with captain Shakib Al Hasan leading the way with 80 runs off 85 balls. In response, India was bowled out for 259 on the penultimate ball of their innings, with opener Shubman Gill scoring 121. Despite Gill's heroic century, India struggled to maintain momentum and lost wickets at regular intervals.
Bangladesh's pacers Tanzim Sakib and Mustafizur Rahman were the standout bowlers, with Sakib taking 2-32 and Rahman taking 3-50. However, it was Shakib who proved to be the hero for Bangladesh, not only with his batting performance but also with his left-arm spin bowling. He bowled Suryakumar Yadav and conceded only 43 runs in his 10 overs.
India's chase got off to a poor start, losing captain Rohit Sharma and debutant Tilak Varma early on. Axar Patel tried to mount a rescue mission with his 42 off 34 balls, but India ultimately fell short. Despite the loss, Sharma praised Patel's character and Gill's brilliant century.
Earlier in the match, Bangladesh struggled at 59-4 before Shakib and Towhid Hridoy rescued the innings with a 101-run partnership for the fifth wicket. After Shakib's dismissal, Bangladesh was reduced to 161-6, but the tailenders contributed crucial runs in the last 15 overs.
This victory marked Bangladesh's eighth win in 40 ODI games against India. The win was significant for Bangladesh, as they were able to defeat a strong Indian team despite missing key players like Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah. The result also showcased the depth of talent in the Bangladesh squad and their ability to compete against top teams in international cricket.
Both teams will now turn their attention to the final of the Asia Cup, with India set to face Sri Lanka on Sunday.
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