Saifuddin’s nerves seal last-over thriller as Bangladesh level series

Bangladesh survived a late collapse to clinch a nail-biting four-wicket win over Ireland with two balls to spare in the second T20I in Chattogram, levelling the three-match series 1-1.

Chasing 171, the Tigers looked in full control early thanks to a brisk start from Parvez Hossain Emon (43 off 28) and a composed fifty from skipper Liton Das (57 off 37). At the end of the powerplay, Bangladesh were cruising at 66-1, and victory seemed only a matter of time.

But Ireland clawed back dramatically. A flurry of wickets — including Saif Hasan, Towhid Hridoy and Nurul Hasan — left Bangladesh wobbling at six down and suddenly staring at defeat.

That’s when Mohammad Saifuddin stepped up. Calm under pressure, he guided the chase home with crucial late boundaries, sealing victory in the final over and silencing Irish hopes.

Earlier, Ireland posted 170-6, recovering from early momentum swings. Lorcan Tucker anchored with an unbeaten 41, while Paul Stirling (29 off 14) and Tim Tector (38) provided the early charge. Floodlight failure halted play briefly in the third over, but the interruption did little to slow Ireland’s aggressive start.

Sheikh Mehidy Hasan was the standout bowler for Bangladesh, finishing with 3-25 from four overs, triggering a middle-order slide that kept the visitors in check.

The deciding match now promises a fiery finish — with Bangladesh regaining confidence and Ireland knowing they were inches away from sealing the series.

The finale awaits. Game on.