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In a stunning upset, the USA secured a historic series win against a full-strength Bangladesh side, taking an unassailable 2-0 lead in the 3-match T20I series in Houston. This marks the USA’s first series victory against a Test-playing nation in T20 cricket, providing a significant morale boost ahead of the T20 World Cup, co-hosted by the USA and the West Indies starting June 1.

The second T20I saw Bangladesh bowled out for 138 in 19.3 overs, falling short of the 145-run target set by the USA at the Prairie View Cricket Complex. Former KKR fast bowler Ali Khan starred with the ball, claiming 3 wickets, including the crucial scalp of Shakib Al Hasan, to seal the historic win.

USA’s confidence was evident as they defended their total on a sluggish pitch. After choosing to bat, USA openers Monak Patel and Steven Taylor provided a steady start with a 44-run partnership. Captain Monak Patel’s composed innings laid the foundation, supported by Aaron Jones, who added a vital 35 runs in a 60-run partnership for the third wicket. Despite Corey Anderson and Harmeet Singh failing to replicate their first T20I heroics, late-order contributions from Nitish Kumar and van Schalkwyk helped the USA add 40 runs in the final four overs.

Bangladesh’s chase began on a shaky note with Soumya Sarkar dismissed for a duck in the first over. Although captain Najmul Hossain Shanto and Tanzid Hasan steadied the innings, middle-order contributions from Towhid Hridoy and Shakib Al Hasan kept Bangladesh in the hunt. Shakib’s aggressive knock, featuring a six and a four, brought the asking rate down in the 16th over.

However, Ali Khan’s double-wicket overturned the match. He dismissed Shakib, who chopped one onto his stumps, and then trapped Tanzim Hasan Sakib LBW with a superb yorker, collapsing Bangladesh’s innings from 124 for 5 to 138 all out.

The final T20I between the two teams will take place in Houston on Saturday, where the USA will aim for a series sweep.

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