The opening match of the three-game Bangladesh–West Indies series at the Brian Lara Stadium delivered a stunning thriller, ending with a last-ball six that sealed victory for the hosts. Bangladesh posted 116/6 in their 10 overs, built almost entirely on a breathtaking innings from Shakib Al Hasan. After early wickets left the Tigers wobbling at 0/1 and then 48/3, Shakib exploded into action, smashing 82 off just 35 balls at a strike rate of 234.29. His powerful strokeplay kept Bangladesh alive as the rest of the lineup struggled to build partnerships. West Indies bowlers faced the brunt of Shakib’s assault, although Kyle Mayers and Romario Shepherd managed two wickets each to keep the total within reach.
Chasing 117, West Indies began brightly thanks to Brandon King’s fiery 40 off 17 balls, setting the platform for a high-speed pursuit. Nicholas Pooran added further momentum with a rapid 38 off 18, but Bangladesh fought back with key breakthroughs in the middle overs, including contributions from Shoriful Islam, Nasum Ahmed, and Shakib himself. As the chase tightened, wickets fell at crucial junctures, and the match headed into a nail-biting final over with West Indies still needing 12 runs to win.
Taskin Ahmed bowled the last over and struck immediately, removing Jason Holder to add pressure. With 4 runs needed from the last 3 balls, then 3 runs required from 2, Bangladesh clawed their way back. Taskin held his nerve further, reducing the equation to 3 runs off the final delivery—setting the stage for one unforgettable moment. Shimron Hetymer, calm under fire, launched the last ball straight over the boundary for six, completing a sensational finish and taking West Indies to 120/6. His unbeaten 14 off 5 balls proved match-defining, while the visitors were left stunned after almost stealing the game at the death.
With West Indies claiming victory by 4 wickets, they take a 1–0 lead in the three-match series, while Bangladesh will rue missed chances despite Shakib’s all-round brilliance. The stage is now set for an intensely contested battle in the remaining games.