Dhaka: Bangladesh clinched the three-match T20 series with a commanding eight-wicket win over Ireland in the third and deciding match at the Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium in Chattogram.
Ireland were restricted to 117 all out in 19.5 overs, with Tanzid Hasan Tamim producing a record-equalling fielding performance by taking five catches — the joint-highest for an outfielder in T20 internationals. Remarkably, all five catches came in five consecutive Irish dismissals, highlighting Bangladesh’s dominance in the field.
Bangladesh, who levelled the series with a win on Sunday, made light work of the chase and reached 119-2 in just 13.4 overs. Tanzid starred again with the bat, scoring a fluent 55, while Hossain Emon added a steady 33 to guide the hosts comfortably past the target.
Ireland, who opened the series with a strong 39-run victory, struggled in the decider. They lost wickets at regular intervals after a modest start. Tim Tector (17) and Harry Tector (5) fell early, while Lorcan Tucker (1) and Curtis Campher (9) could not build any momentum. Paul Stirling’s 38 offered resistance, but once he fell at 73-5, the innings unraveled.
Tanzid’s stunning run of catches removed Gareth Delaney (10), Mark Adair (8), Matthew Humphreys (1), George Dockrell (19) and Ben White (5). With Mustafizur Rahman leading the bowling attack with figures of 3-11, Ireland were bowled out one ball short of their 20 overs.
Bangladesh lost Saif Hassan (19) and Litton Das (7) early in their reply, but the hosts remained in control throughout. Their confident chase secured the T20 series 2-1, adding to their earlier dominance in the two-match Test series against Ireland.
