T20 World Cup 2024: This is the match we should have won – Najmul Hossain Shanto after loss against South Africa

Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto admitted they should have won against South Africa after their four-run loss at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, New York on Monday. The Tigers bowlers came up with a brilliant show, restricting the Proteas to 113-6 after Aiden Markram won the toss and decided to bat first.

Tanzim Hasan Sakib was right on the money for Bangladesh, taking three wickets in the Powerplay overs. Sakib accounted for Quinton de Kock, Reeza Hendricks, and Tristan Stubbs as he reaped rewards for bowling in the right areas. 

Taskin Ahmed also bowled a fine spell, returning with 2-19 as he dismissed Aiden Markram and a well-settled Heinrich Klaasen.

On the other hand, Bangladesh had the match in their pocket as they needed 20 runs off the last 18 balls with an experienced Mahmudullah at the crease. However, they could not get over the line as dot balls created pressure. Thus, South Africa was able to defend the lowest total in T20 World Cups.

Shanto showered praise on Tanzim Hasan Sakib for bowling a fine spell of 3-18. He said in the post-match presentation, “We were bit nervous but we were confident we could get over the line but unfortunately it did not happen. (Tanzim Hasan) He worked really hard last couple of days, we wanted wickets with the new ball and he showed character today. This is the match we should have won, last couple of overs they bowled really well. It can happen in cricket.”

The left-hander also lauded Rishad Hossain for getting the big wicket of a well-settled David Miller. 

Shanto concluded, “He is very good, the way we bowled last couple of series, he practiced very hard. We’ve struggled with leg-spinners over the last 10-15 yrs so we’re lucky we got one. Hopefully he can continue. Thanks to all the supporters, hopefully they’ll come to the West Indies as well.”

Bangladesh will next take on the Netherlands at the Arnos Vale Ground, Kingstown, St Vincent on Thursday.