Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) IPL 2025 Auction Buyer Romario Shepherd showed his ability with the ball in the third T20I during an exciting match between Bangladesh and West Indies Huge talent with the bat and ball. His performance, packed with explosive sixes, had fans talking and no wonder RCB supporters were so Edit summaryExcited about the future of this dynamic all-rounder.
Sheppy keeps fighting__#WIvBAN | #WIHomeForChristmas pic.twitter.com/hTbyVE6hdw
— Windies Cricket (@windiescricket) December 20, 2024
pic.twitter.com/md14WtRF7w— Sunil Gavaskar (@gavaskar_theman) December 20, 2024
Romario Sheppard’s stunning batting performance
Third T20 I see West Indies chasing the ambitious target set by Bangladesh. Although West Indies failed to cross the finish line, Sheppard’s batting performance remained a highlight for the visitors. He scored 33 quick runs off just 27 balls, including one boundary and three big sixes. One of the six in particular left the Arnos Valley Stadium crowd in awe.
In 10.2 overs, Tanzim Hasan Sakib bowls a long delivery on the stumps. Sheppard cleared the front leg with coolness and precision, sending the ball into the stratosphere from deep mid-wicket. The ball traveled a staggering 88 meters, landed on the stadium roof and bounced off the ground in a remarkable display of power. Sheppard’s six outings went viral, cementing his reputation as a game-changer.
Shepherd’s bowling magic: Dismissal of Liton Das
In addition to his hitting accomplishments, Shepard also had a major impact with the ball. In the third T20I, his crucial wicket of Bangladesh captain Litton Das turned the match in West Indies’ favour. Litton had struggled scoring in the series, scoring just 14 points before Sheppard sacked him.
The breakthrough came in the fifth inning when Shepard threw a long pitch to Litton, who tried to pull the ball but couldn’t execute it properly. Litton’s lack of back-foot movement resulted in a neat catch from the top edge of the ball by Brendan King. The sack was a testament to Shepard’s intelligence and ability to capitalize on clutch situations.
Bangladesh’s dominance: Historic sweep
While Romario Shepherd’s individual brilliance stood out, Bangladesh proved themselves to be the dominant force in the game and series. After winning the toss, Bangladesh led with a total of 189/7 as Jaker Ali smashed a staggering 72* off just 41 balls. Emon Hossain also contributed 39 quick runs to ensure Bangladesh set a challenging target for West Indies.
In response, West Indies found themselves in an uphill battle. Despite Shepherd’s valiant effort and 33 points, the Winds finished with only 109 points, trailing by 80 points. Bangladesh’s bowlers took control of the situation, with Shoref Islam and Mustafizur Rahman ensuring West Indies collapsed under pressure. Windy’s total was their second-lowest total in a T20I against Bangladesh, underlining the comprehensive nature of the hosts’ victory.
Shepherd’s Role in the West Indies Struggle
Despite Romario Sheppard’s heroics, his efforts could not save West Indies from a series of whitewashes. The team’s woes continued, with them losing wickets regularly and falling apart quickly. Sheppard’s all-around performance did provide some hope, but the Winds never competed again after an early loss. The inability to build partnerships and absorb pressure at critical moments ultimately led to their downfall.
RCB fans have reason to celebrate
For RCB fans, Romario Shepherd’s performance in this series has inspired optimism ahead of IPL 2025. The ability to hit sixes while being clinical with the ball shows his versatility as an all-rounder. An IPL 2025 auction pick, Shepherd’s talent is likely to complement RCB’s existing squad, providing them with reliable performance in both departments.