Same old batting woes for Bangladesh, West Indies clinch series

The target was smaller than in the first match, but the outcome was all too familiar. Bangladesh once again failed to chase a modest total and suffered a series defeat against the West Indies.

Chasing 150 in the second T20I, Bangladesh managed only 135 for eight, falling 14 runs short. The loss meant Shai Hope's team took an unassailable 2–0 lead in the three-match series. After winning the ODI series in Dhaka, Bangladesh have now lost the first two T20Is in the Caribbean — ending their streak of four consecutive T20I series wins.

Needing 21 runs off the final over with four wickets in hand, Bangladesh never looked in contention. Akeal Hosein, who was getting sharp turn and excellent control, conceded only six runs and picked up two wickets in that over. Rishad Hossain's attempted six ended in a boundary catch, while Nasum Ahmed was bowled off the last ball.

Earlier, the West Indies posted 149 for nine in their 20 overs, thanks largely to half-centuries from Alick Athanaze (52) and captain Shai Hope (55). Mustafizur Rahman bowled brilliantly for Bangladesh, finishing with figures of 3 for 21, while Nasum Ahmed and Rishad Hossain claimed two wickets apiece.

In reply, Bangladesh were once again let down by their batting. Opener Tanzid Hasan fought hard with a fluent 61, and Liton Das contributed 23, but the rest of the batting order failed to build on the platform. Romario Shepherd and Akeal Hosein took three wickets each, while Jason Holder provided key breakthroughs in the middle overs.

After losing by 16 runs in the first match, Bangladesh's 14-run defeat in the second sealed the series for the hosts. The third and final T20I will now be a dead rubber — but for Bangladesh, it offers a chance to salvage some pride after another disappointing batting display.