All time record fifth wicket 224 runs partnership between Shakib Al Hasan and Mahmudullah Riyad saw Bangladesh beat new Zealand by five wickets in ICC Champions Trophy match on Friday at Sophia Garden, Cardiff, Wales(UK).
The world called it the mother of all miracles when little Bangladesh beat the mighty Australians in Cardiff in 2005. Twelve years later, in a toe-to-toe battle with New Zealand at the same ground, Bangladesh staged a comeback for the ages, winning by five wickets after being blown away by their pace attack. The stunning turnaround was scripted courtesy Bangladesh’s highest stand for any wicket in ODIs between centurions Shakib Al Hasan and Mahmudullah who added 224 at over a run a ball after their side had been reduced to 33 for 4 chasing 266.
This was a glorious day for Bangladesh. But now all they can do is wait. A squad of 15 players, the backroom staff, and hundreds of millions of fans around the world will be supporting England or cheering the rain at Edgbaston. Still, they will once again always remember Cardiff.
“It would be nice if England won, but we can’t just ask that Australia will lose that game,” Mashrafe said. “But I would like to say to both teams, best of luck. Whatever we could do, we did. That is the most important thing for us.”
