Yes, they have done it and in some grand style indeed. Bangladesh has left a long lasting impression on the legacy of the ICC Champions Trophy by eliminating New Zealand from the competition. They haven’t just eliminated New Zealand, but have also ensured that they are just one result away from securing a berth in the semi-finals. If the game between England and Australia tomorrow is washed out or in favour of England, then Bangladesh will go through to the semis as the second team from Group A.
In that case, it will by far be the greatest day ever in the cricketing history of the country. Chasing 266, the Bangla Tigers seemed down and out after being reduced to 33-4 in 11.4 overs. Their campaign was perceived to be over right there with Tim Southee wrecking havoc.
A magical stand between Mahmudullah and Shakib Al Hasan however, rewrote history as powered by the two centurions, Bangladesh ended up chasing the target quite comfortably. Post the game, skipper Mashrafe Mortaza was ecstatic and lauded the side.
“It’s a great feeling,” said Mortaza. “Both times I’ve been here. First, against Australia. And now New Zealand. Overall we are very much satisfied. If you take the first match, we weren’t up to the mark. 305 we couldn’t stop. But today bowlers hit the right area. We got wickets in patches.”
“The three overs from Mosaddek were very crucial. The thinking was that he had got Neesham and Corey out previously and they had to hit the bigger side. Once those left-handers came in, it was the obvious decision for me. The way Shakib and Mahmudullah played, it was out of the world,” the Bangladesh skipper said, lauding the side.
“We knew it was going to be difficult, but we got confidence from when we beat them in Ireland. We knew this can happen. We just have to play hard and never give up. We feel great right now.”