INDIA: Defending champions England stormed to a 137-run triumph over Bangladesh in their second ICC World Cup encounter on Tuesday. Sent into bat, England’s top-order batters put on a spectacular show, propelling their team to an imposing total of 364 for 9.
Dawid Malan was the standout performer, scoring a scintillating 140, while Jonny Bairstow (52) and Joe Root (82) contributed with impressive half-centuries, setting a formidable target for the Bangladeshi side.
The match showcased England’s batting might in all its glory. Openers Dawid Malan and Jonny Bairstow set the stage with a blazing 115-run partnership for the first wicket. Bairstow’s fluent 52 off 59 balls, studded with eight boundaries, provided England’s early impetus.
However, it was Dawid Malan’s sublime innings that stole the spotlight. The left-hander crafted a brilliant 140, displaying an array of shots with 16 boundaries and five sixes. His partnership with Joe Root was equally remarkable, as they added 151 runs for the second wicket. Root’s 82 came off 77 deliveries and provided the late surge England needed.
Bangladesh, facing a daunting chase, had their moments with Litton Das (76) and Mushfiqur Rahim (51) putting up a valiant fight. Das anchored the innings with a composed knock, while Rahim added some crucial runs. But the English bowlers, led by Reece Topley’s brilliant performance, proved to be too much for the Bangladeshi batting lineup.
Topley was the chief tormentor, claiming four crucial wickets for just 43 runs. His ability to strike at crucial junctures of the match kept Bangladesh on the backfoot. Chris Woakes, with his valuable two wickets for 49 runs, also played a significant role in England’s comprehensive victory.
Mehidy Hasan was the standout bowler for Bangladesh, returning figures of 4 for 71 in his eight overs. Left-arm seamer Shoriful Islam contributed three wickets but couldn’t prevent England’s batting onslaught.
This commanding win sees England regain their winning momentum after a stumble in their previous game against New Zealand. The defending champions have once again signaled their intent to retain the ICC World Cup trophy and will be a formidable force to be reckoned with for the remainder of the tournament.
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