The Bangladesh High Performance (HP) team advanced to the final of the 2024 Top End T20 Series by defeating Northern Territory (NT) Strike by 21 runs in the semi-final at TIO Stadium, Darwin.

Winning the toss and opting to bat first, Bangladesh HP faced early pressure but managed to post a competitive total of 138/6 in their allotted 20 overs. Shamim Hossain played a crucial role with an unbeaten 41 off 34 balls, anchoring the innings after early wickets. He received valuable support from Afif Hossain, who scored 22 off 16 balls, and Tanzid Hasan Tamim, who chipped in with a quickfire 16 off 11 balls. Mahfuzur Rahman Rabby's 21 off 20 deliveries also helped in setting a defendable target.

NT Strike’s Matt Hammond was the pick of the bowlers, taking 2 wickets while maintaining tight control.

In reply, NT Strike started their chase confidently with openers Jake Weatherald and D’Arcy Short putting on a 41-run partnership. Weatherald looked in good touch, scoring 34 off 29 balls, but his dismissal marked the beginning of a collapse. The Bangladesh HP bowlers then tightened the screws, with Ripon Mondol leading the charge by taking 3/23 in his four overs. Rakibul Hasan provided excellent support, claiming 2/24, while Aliss Al Islam and Abu Hider Rony chipped in with crucial wickets.

Despite some resistance from the middle order, NT Strike couldn’t keep up with the required run rate. Regular fall of wickets meant they were eventually restricted to 117/9, handing Bangladesh HP a well-earned 21-run victory.

With this win, Bangladesh HP secured their spot in the final, showcasing strong performances from both their batsmen and bowlers throughout the tournament​.