Bangladesh’s six-hitting surge marks new attacking era

Two back-to-back wins against the Netherlands have not only sealed another series but also confirmed what the numbers already suggest: Bangladesh are hitting sixes at an unprecedented rate.

So far in 2025, the Tigers have cleared the rope 109 times in just 14 matches — third among Test-playing nations this year, behind only the West Indies and Pakistan.

Last year, they crossed the 100-mark in a calendar year for the first time. This time, they are on course to shatter that record with months still to go.

The driving forces have been openers Tanzid Hasan and Parvez Hossain Emon, who took turns rewriting the record book during the second T20I in Sylhet.

Emon briefly held the mark for most sixes by a Bangladeshi in a year before Tanzid overtook him minutes later, finishing unbeaten on 54 to guide Bangladesh home.

Asked if he sets out to clear the ropes, Tanzid downplayed any deliberate plan.

“We just play normal cricket depending on how the wicket behaves,” he said. “The communication with Parvez is good, and the intent is always there.”

That intent is exactly what team management has been demanding. Power-hitting coach Julian Wood, on a short-term contract, has been working with the batters this month.

Tanzid admitted his own style doesn’t rely on brute force but said Wood’s guidance on balance and shape has been helpful.

“Everyone has the freedom to play their role,” Tanzid added. “The message from the management is clear — execute your role the way you can.”

Bangladesh’s shift to a freer, more aggressive approach has already delivered results: three straight T20I series wins over Sri Lanka, Pakistan and now the Netherlands. With the Asia Cup days away, the timing of this six-hitting surge could not be better, reports UNB.