For years, the Mirpur pitch has been known as a “spin paradise,” often making life difficult for batters. The first two ODIs of the series followed that tradition, testing both sides with turn and low bounce. But in the decisive third match, Bangladesh’s openers turned the script upside down with a commanding display of stroke play.
By the 16th over, Bangladesh had already reached 100 runs without losing a wicket, a rare sight at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium. It was the first time in a long while that the Tigers managed a century opening stand in ODIs.
The partnership eventually blossomed into 176 runs, making it the second-highest opening stand in Bangladesh’s ODI history. The only higher effort remains the monumental 292-run stand between Liton Das and Tamim Iqbal against Zimbabwe in 2020.
This was also the highest opening partnership in Mirpur since 2015, when Tamim Iqbal and Imrul Kayes put on 147 runs against Zimbabwe in the third ODI of that series.
Soumya and Saif’s effort not only gave Bangladesh a flying start but also provided a refreshing change from the spin-dominated battles usually seen at this venue. Their aggressive intent, clean hitting, and ability to rotate strike neutralized the conditions that so often trouble visiting and home batters alike.
The stand will be remembered as a landmark moment in Bangladesh’s ODI history, showcasing the potential of a new opening pair to deliver on the big stage and reminding fans that even on a pitch famed for spin, batters can still dominate with the right approach.
Tags: Bangladesh vs West Indies 3rd ODI, Soumya Sarkar Saif Hassan partnership, Mirpur ODI records, Bangladesh opening stand record, Liton Das Tamim Iqbal 292, Bangladesh cricket 2025, Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium, Bangladesh ODI history, West Indies tour of Bangladesh, Bangladesh cricket news
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