Shanto, the captain of Bangladesh was unhappy after his team lost to South Africa by 4 runs in a T20 World Cup game at Nassau County International Cricket Stadium.
The match, which happened on Monday, saw South Africa win in a final-ball thriller and edge closer to the Super 8 stage.
Leading into the last over with Jakir Ali at the crease, Shanto felt his team had a chance of winning. Nevertheless, South African bowlers especially Keshav Maharaj managed to hang on and grabbed an emphatic victory from the jaws of defeat.
“Everyone was nervous but when Jaker was there we were confident. It didn’t come off but never mind. In the last few games Tanzid has really worked hard; he needed new ball wickets and showed his character. This is that match which we ought to have won; we almost did but they bowled very well in those last couple of overs,” Shanto said during the post-match interview.
While analyzing Rishad Hossain’s performance, Shanto lauded the dedication and skill of this bowler. “He is very good, practice for last two series how he has bowled. We’ve had issues with leg-spinners over past 10-15 years so luckily we now have one. Hopefully he can continue.” he continues while thanking all fans for their support before adding, “Thanks to all the supporters hopefully they’ll come West Indies as well.”
This match’s key point came in its final over when South African skipper Aiden Markram made a bold move by entrusting Maharaj with the ball on a pacers’ favored pitch. With both Jaker Ali and Mahmudullah being dismissed by Maharaj, Markram himself took vital catches close to boundary line finally ensuring their victory.
Markram’s tactical decision paid off indicating how high stakes are combined with fine margins in T20 cricket.
