‘Aisa pehli baar hua hai 17-18 saalon me’ – Fans react as Bangladesh beats New Zealand first time in Tests at home

Bangladesh created history on December 2 by securing their first-ever home Test victory against New Zealand at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium in Sylhet. The hosts, under the leadership of their brand new captain Najmul Hossain Shanto, emerged triumphant, winning the match by 150 runs.

The star of the historic win was Taijul Islam, who delivered a remarkable performance with a six-wicket haul, dismantling the New Zealand batting lineup. From the outset, the visitors faced adversity as pacer Shoriful Islam dismissed Tom Latham with a six-ball duck in the very first over. Skipper Kane Williamson, fresh from his first-innings century, struggled to replicate his success, succumbing to Taijul’s crafty variations and getting trapped lbw for 11.

As the pitch deteriorated, the challenges for the Kiwis intensified. Henry Nicholls fell victim to Mehidy Hasan, top-edging a slog-sweep to Nayeem Hasan for a mere 2 runs. Left-handed opener Devon Conway, however, showed resilience amidst the crumbling wickets, playing with positive intent and sweeping the spinners effectively. 

Brilliant all-round performance by Bangladesh

Unfortunately for New Zealand, Taijul eventually dismissed Conway, caught by Shahadat Hossain at short leg, leaving the visitors reeling at 46-4. Daryl Mitchell tried to anchor the innings, but he found little support from the other end. The day concluded with New Zealand at 113-7, still chasing a challenging victory target of 332. 

Mitchell, unbeaten on 44, displayed patience, while Ish Sodhi provided support with 7 runs. Opener Devon Conway’s contribution of 22 was notable, but the overall team effort from Bangladesh bowlers ensured the historic win remained within reach. Shanto, in his captaincy debut, led by example, setting a high standard for the team. 

The entire Bangladesh squad showcased determination and skill, making this victory a momentous occasion in the country’s cricket history. As the cricketing world applauds Bangladesh’s achievement, the team looks forward to building on this success in future engagements, with eyes set on more memorable moments in international cricket.

Here’s how fans reacted:

https://twitter.com/Babaristan_/status/1730813727417749958

https://twitter.com/imsachinyadav1/status/1730814702790619189

https://twitter.com/Keahwaa/status/1730821127487074545