Brendon McCullum demonstrated why he's considered one of the world's premier Twenty20 batsmen last night against Bangladesh.
He made the highest score in Twenty20 internationals with 123 off 58 balls as part of New Zealand's 191 for three to open their World T20 tournament. McCullum took the match away from Bangladesh who compiled 132 for eight to lose by 59 runs. Barring freakish results from here, New Zealand should make the Super Eight stage.
McCullum (or simply Brendon as the scoreboard addressed him to distinguish from brother Nathan) bristled with intent. He might have the highest aggregate of international T20 runs (1566) by virtue of longevity but he now owns the top average (38.19) for the highest 20 run scorers. He is the first player to get two centuries in T20 internationals.
McCullum was equal parts bludgeon and finesse, giving his wagon wheel an even coverage of spokes. Slogging was largely banished.
His bat must have looked like a barn door and the stumps like candles on a three-year old's birthday cake to the Bangladeshi bowling attack. Highlights included a waltz down the wicket for a six over cover, playing with the left-arm orthodox spin of Shakib Al Hasan. A forehand swat over long-off was unconventional but effective off Mashrafe Mortaza. The Sri Lankan military contingent with their backs to the game must have felt like they were involved in live grenade practice with McCullum clearing the boundary seven times.
