ICC World Cup 2023: England's Dominant Batting Display Secures Victory Against Bangladesh
Following their loss to New Zealand in the opening match, the defending champions England rebounded with renewed strength in their second encounter against Bangladesh.
Following their loss to New Zealand in the opening match, the defending champions England rebounded with renewed strength in their second encounter against Bangladesh. England secured victory with the help of a century from Dawid Malan, a brisk 82-run performance from Joe Root, and Recee Topley's 4-wicket haul. England won the match by a margin of 137 runs.
Bangladesh faced significant setbacks early in chasing the target of 365 runs. Pacer Recee Topley (4/43) claimed the wickets of opener Tanzid Hasan and Najmul Hossain Shanto in consecutive deliveries during the second over. Captain Shakib Al Hasan and Mehidy Hasan Miraz were also dismissed without making any substantial impact. Consequently, Bangladesh lost four wickets with their score still below 50 runs. It was at this juncture that the opening batsman Litton Das and Mushfiqur Rahim formed a partnership, adding 72 runs for the fifth wicket and kindling hope among Bangladesh supporters. However, Chris Woakes removed Das (76) in the 21st over, further diminishing Bangladesh's prospects. Mushfiqur (51), too, departed shortly after reaching his half-century, and the inevitability of Bangladesh's loss became apparent. Ultimately, they were bowled out for 227 runs in 48.2 overs.
While the second innings saw a sluggish chase, the first innings witnessed an abundance of runs. Openers Johnny Bairstow and Dawid Malan combined for a substantial partnership of 115 runs for the first wicket. Bairstow (52) notched up a half-century before departing. Subsequently, Root (82) and Malan crafted a remarkable 151-run partnership for the second wicket. In the process, Malan (140) also scored a scintillating century. In less than 37 overs, England exceeded the 260-run mark, initially appearing poised to breach the 400-run barrier. However, during the final 10 overs, Bangladesh's bowlers mounted a strong comeback, taking six wickets for a mere 66 runs. Consequently, England concluded their innings at 364/9 after 50 overs, with Mahedi Hasan making a significant impact by claiming four wickets (4/71).
Bangladesh is slated to face New Zealand on October 13 in their next fixture, while England will take on Afghanistan on October 15.
Scorecard:
England: 364/9 (50 overs)
Bangladesh: 227/10 in 48.2 overs