India thrash Bangladesh to close in on semi-finals

India edged closer to the T20 World Cup semi-finals with a statement 50-run win over Bangladesh.

Hardik Pandya’s unbeaten half-century helped India post an imposing 196-5 after being put in to bat in Antigua.

Bangladesh’s batting struggles continued in the chase as they stuttered to 146-8 in a curiously subdued effort, with leg-spinner Kuldeep Yadav taking 3-19.

Quick bowler Tanzim Hasan’s fiery double-wicket over and captain Najmul Hossain Shanto’s 40 were the Tigers’ only genuine performances of intent.

The win sees India remain unbeaten in the World Cup so far, alongside South Africa and Australia.

They are well-placed for a semi-final spot and are gathering momentum as they approach the knockout stages, with this victory following the preceding convincing effort against Afghanistan.

Virat Kohli found form after just 29 runs in his previous four innings in the tournament, adding a fluent 37, followed by cameos from Rishabh Pant and Shivam Dube to support the destructive Hardik.

After a strong fightback in the middle, Bangladesh wilted at the death with 76 runs coming from the final five overs as the bowlers lost all discipline in the face of India’s aggression.

If Australia beat Afghanistan later on Saturday night (Sunday, 01:30 BST) then they and India will progress to the semi-finals from Group One, but a surprise win for Afghanistan would keep all four sides in contention.

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