In a dazzling display of batting prowess, Bangladesh opener Soumya Sarkar has rewritten the record books, leading his team to a formidable total in the second ODI against New Zealand in Nelson.
Despite facing a dry spell in ODIs for the past two years and being excluded from Bangladesh’s ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 squad, the 30-year-old left-hander showcased exceptional form, hammering an impressive 169 runs off 151 balls. His innings included a remarkable 22 fours and two sixes.
Soumya Sarkar’s outstanding performance secured several milestones. His score stands as the highest by a Bangladesh men’s player in an ODI away from home, setting a new benchmark for excellence. Moreover, it surpasses the legendary Sachin Tendulkar record of 163* against New Zealand in Christchurch back in 2009, marking the highest score by a subcontinent player in ODIs on New Zealand soil. The total team score of 291 also represents Bangladesh’s highest ODI score in New Zealand.
Soumya Sarkar: The man of moment
Facing adversity after losing the toss and three wickets within the initial 10 overs, Sarkar found a reliable partner in wicketkeeper-batsman Mushfiqur Rahim, who contributed 45 runs in their crucial 91-run partnership. Even after Rahim’s departure, Soumya Sarkar continued to dominate the New Zealand bowlers.
Despite the commendable efforts of New Zealand’s debutant leg-spinner Adithya Ashok and William O’Rourke, who claimed three wickets in the final over, Sarkar’s exceptional innings remained the focal point.
His knock, just shy of Litton Das’ record of 176, solidifies Soumya Sarkar place in Bangladesh cricket history, showcasing his ability to rise to the occasion when his team needs it most.
