In a resounding display of dominance, India cruised to a seven-wicket victory over Bangladesh in the opening T20 of the series in Gwalior. The hosts’ triumph was orchestrated by a lethal bowling attack led by debutant Mayank Yadav and the returning Varun Chakaravarthy, who stifled the Bangladeshi batters.
Mayank, a 22-year-old pacer from Delhi, made an impressive debut, generating serious pace and claiming the wicket of veteran Mahmudullah. His opening spell of 2-1-3-1 included a maiden over, showcasing his potential as a genuine fast bowler.
Varun Chakaravarthy, making his comeback after nearly three years, also troubled the Bangladeshi batters with his enigmatic spin. He dismissed Towhid Hridoy and Jaker Ali, leaving Bangladesh reeling at 64 for five in 10 overs.
Left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh played his part in the powerplay, removing openers Litton Das and Parvez Hossain Emon. He returned to end Bangladesh’s innings, claiming the wicket of Mehidy Hasan Miraz, who top-scored for the visitors with 35 not out.
India’s chase was equally impressive, with Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson setting the tone with aggressive batting. Samson played a delightful cameo of 29 off 19 before falling to Mehidy Hasan Miraz.
Skipper Suryakumar Yadav continued the onslaught, picking up shots off pacer Taskin Ahmed in the fifth over. Debutant Nitish Reddy and Hardik Pandya guided India home in a canter, with Pandya finishing the game in style with a ballistic 12th over.
The victory was a testament to India’s depth and talent, as they showcased a formidable bowling attack and aggressive batting lineup. The series-opening win sets the stage for an exciting contest between the two sides in the remaining matches.
