India (196/5) beat Bangladesh (146/8) by 50-run to make it to the semi-final of the 2024 T20 World Cup. But for Bangladesh, the defeat at Sir Vivian Richards Stadium dashed their hope of progressing. They are now placed at the bottom of the Table with 0 points.
India amassed a formidable total of 196, thanks to stellar contributions from Hardik Pandya (50* off 27) and Shivam Dube (34 off 24) in the middle order.
Najmul Hossain Shanto (40 off 34) opted to field first after winning the toss. Shakib (1/37) gave Bangladesh an early breakthrough, dismissing Rohit Sharma. Pandya and Dube then forged a resilient partnership, propelling India to a commanding score, which proved daunting on this surface.
Bangladesh’s batters aimed for a robust start in their chase but struggled, accumulating 42/1 in the powerplay. As the required run rate soared, their middle-order batsmen faltered. Shanto couldn’t steer his team to victory despite his valiant effort.
India’s immaculate record in the competition remains intact, making them the team to watch. Conversely, Bangladesh’s consecutive losses have ousted them from semi-final contention. A victory in this match would have kept their hopes alive until the final day.
Key Moments that Shaped the Game
Virat Kohli’s Flourish
Following Rohit Sharma’s initial onslaught, Virat Kohli ensured a solid start during the powerplay. King Kohli’s 37 off 28 balls, embellished with three sixes, gave India a robust foundation. His resurgence is a promising sign for the Men in Blue.
Pandya’s Power Show
Hardik Pandya (50* off 27) delivered a stellar innings, bolstering India’s total. His aggressive batting, featuring 4 fours and 3 sixes, marked his first fifty of the tournament. Pandya’s middle-order prowess has introduced a new dynamic to the team, showcasing glimpses of his prime form. 
Pandya’s Flourish
Hardik Pandya ensured a strong finish for India by targeting Mustafizur Rahman in the final over, amassing 18 runs, including 3 fours. This propelled India’s total to an imposing 196, with Pandya reaching his fifty in style with a boundary on the last ball.
Kuldeep Yadav’s Masterclass
Kuldeep Yadav (3/19) delivered a crucial breakthrough by dismantling the partnership of Hasan and Shanto, trapping Hasan LBW. Despite the batting-friendly pitch, Kuldeep’s accurate bowling and deft cutters troubled the batsmen.
Bumrah’s Decisive Over
Bumrah (2/13) once again proved his mettle, dismissing Shanto (40 off 32) in the 16th over, effectively sealing the game for India. Conceding only two runs in that over, his performance was precisely what India needed.
The Indian team rejoices as they cement their semi-final spot, with all elements falling into place at the opportune moment. Their next challenge is against Australia in the final match of the Super 8 at Beausejour Stadium, with odds favouring India at 1.69x. On the other hand, Bangladesh faces disappointment, having exited the semi-finals race after back-to-back defeats in the Super Eight.
