Bangladesh pacer Taskin Ahmed delivered a stellar performance to help his side secure a comprehensive win against the Netherlands in the first T20 of the three-match series at Sylhet International Stadium.
Taskin took four wickets for just 28 runs in his four overs, earning the Player of the Match award, and played a key role in restricting the visitors to 136 for 8. His performance was a significant boost ahead of the 17th edition of the Asia Cup, set to begin in a few days.
Taskin, who had previously travelled to England for treatment of a knee injury, returned to international cricket in the recent Sri Lanka series but was still regaining his rhythm. He had been rested against Pakistan, but made an immediate impact against the Netherlands. Speaking at the post-match press conference, Taskin said he is gradually regaining form and thoroughly enjoys performing with the ball.
“Alhamdulillah, I was able to win Player of the Match in the first game of the series,” Taskin said. “The conditions were good and the wicket was batting-friendly, although the dew factor made it slightly challenging for bowlers. Alhamdulillah, we managed to restrict the opposition to a comparatively low score. The wicket was sporting, and I feel this is the best batting track Bangladesh has played on so far. Even though it was challenging at times, I enjoyed every bit of it.”
He added that workload management has always been a priority due to pacers being prone to injury. “Our physios and trainers constantly monitor the bowlers’ load. If I remain fit, perhaps this rotation won’t be necessary anymore. But with the Asia Cup approaching, the team may still manage players carefully. Whatever happens, I want to enjoy the present. If there’s training, I’ll train; if there’s a match, I’ll play.”
Taskin also reflected on his recovery: “After returning from injury in the Sri Lanka series, it was initially difficult to find rhythm. Now things are gradually improving. The hard work over the past few weeks, including all training, is helping me regain my rhythm. There is still a long way to go, but InshAllah, if Allah keeps me fit, it will get even better. Wickets come with rhythm, and I am following this process to improve further.”
On the match itself, Taskin praised the Sylhet wicket, calling it Bangladesh’s best playing surface. Despite it being batting-friendly, he demonstrated that smart bowling can yield wickets. “I bowled according to the situation and did what was required at the time. In T20 cricket, anything can happen. Understanding the conditions and bowling accordingly worked well,” he said.
Taskin also highlighted the contributions of his teammates, particularly captain Litton Das, who returned to form with the bat. “Liton scoring runs is good for the team; it feels great to see him back in form. Everyone is improving in power-hitting too, and even new players like Julian Wood are adapting quickly,” he said.
Reflecting on the team’s overall performance, Taskin said, “We played dominant cricket; everyone contributed from their positions, which helped us achieve a good win. Our plan was to score early, the top order performed well, Liton played excellently, and we got a solid victory. Everyone is giving their best in practice, and it’s paying off. If we continue like this, we will do even better.”
