Welcome to the live coverage of the 1st ODI between Bangladesh and West Indies, taking place at the iconic Shere Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka! The atmosphere is electric as both teams prepare to kick off what promises to be a gripping series.
### The Toss and Captains’ Insights
West Indies captain Shai Hope won the crucial toss and, without hesitation, chose to bowl first. When asked about his decision, Hope stated, “We are going to bowl first; unfamiliar conditions mean we’ll let our bowlers take the first strike. It’s been a hectic couple of months, so adapting quickly and giving our best is key. This series feels like a continuation of our successful Caribbean tour, especially after defeating Pakistan, which has boosted our confidence. Our balanced squad with three seam and three spin options has us well-prepared to start strong even in foreign conditions.”
Bangladesh captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz, despite preferring to bat first, expressed his team’s readiness: “Yes, we love to bat first as well. It’s a new day, and the players need to understand their roles. I’m confident everyone will perform better. Our lineup includes two fast bowlers, three spinners, and seven batters, reflecting a balanced strategy.”
### Pitch Report from Mirpur
Pitchside expert Farveez Maharoof provided a crucial update on the Mirpur pitch. He noted a significant transformation: the grass cover has receded, leaving a slower surface perfectly suited for spinners. Maharoof suggested that Bangladesh would ideally aim for a score between 225-230 to secure a victory, emphasizing that the slow nature of the pitch could challenge batters, particularly during the middle overs. A strong batting performance from Bangladesh will be vital.
### The Teams are Set!
**Bangladesh (Playing XI):** Saif Hassan, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Soumya Sarkar, Towhid Hridoy, Mehidy Hasan Miraz (c), Nurul Hasan (w), Mahidul Islam Ankon, Rishad Hossain, Tanvir Islam, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman.
**West Indies (Playing XI):** Brandon King, Alick Athanaze, Keacy Carty, Shai Hope (w/c), Sherfane Rutherford, Justin Greaves, Roston Chase, Romario Shepherd, Gudakesh Motie, Khary Pierre, Jayden Seales.
### Early Action: First Over Commences!
The stage is finally set! Bangladesh openers Saif Hassan and Soumya Sarkar confidently walked out to the crease, ready to face the West Indies’ opening attack. Jayden Seales, with the ball in hand, prepared to deliver the first over, eager to make an early impact. The crowd held its breath as the match got underway.
**Over 0.1:** Jayden Seales bowled a full-length delivery wide of off. Saif Hassan seized the opportunity, elegantly driving it over the infield for a well-placed three runs. The outfield, being a bit slow, prevented the ball from reaching the boundary ropes quickly, but it was a promising start for Bangladesh.
**Over 0.2:** Seales followed up with a good length ball on off. Soumya Sarkar tucked it off the inside edge of his bat towards mid-wicket, but no run was taken.
**Over 0.3:** Jayden maintained a hard length, angling the ball across the left-handed Soumya Sarkar, who prudently left it alone.
**Over 0.4:** Another back-of-a-length delivery on off from Seales, which Soumya Sarkar defended solidly.
**Over 0.5:** Jayden Seales bowled the fifth ball to Soumya Sarkar. No run scored.