Bangladesh thrash Netherlands in T20I series opener

Bangladesh opened their three-match T20 International series in style, cruising to an eight-wicket win over the Netherlands in the first game at Sylhet International Cricket Stadium on Saturday evening.

Set a target of 137 after restricting the visitors to 136 for 8 in 20 overs, the Tigers chased it down with ease. Captain Litton Das spearheaded the reply with a dazzling unbeaten 54 off 29 balls, laced with six boundaries and two sixes, finishing the job with 40 deliveries still left.

He was well supported by Saif Hassan, who marked his international return with an explosive 36 not out from just 19 balls, hitting one four and three sixes. The pair guided Bangladesh to victory in just 13.3 overs, leaving little chance for the Dutch to recover.

With the win, Bangladesh went 1–0 up in the series. The second T20I will be played at the same venue on Monday, where the hosts will aim to seal the series and the Netherlands will look to keep it alive.