The Bangladesh Men’s Emerging Team secured their first victory of the ongoing tri-series in South Africa, defeating the University Sports South Africa (USSA) side by 26 runs via the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method. The rain-affected encounter took place at Tuks Oval in Pretoria on Monday.
After electing to bowl first in a match reduced to 47 overs per side due to rain, the Bangladesh bowling attack successfully contained the hosts, bundling USSA out for 248 in the final over.
Pace Attack Shines: Fast bowler Iqbal Hasan Emon spearheaded the bowling unit with a brilliant five-wicket haul, returning figures of 5-53. He was well supported by Rohanat Doullah Borson, who chipped in with two crucial wickets.
USSA Resistance: For the hosts, Jason Muirhead anchored the innings with a top score of 79, while Ludwich Schuld provided strong support with a solid 72.
Chasing 249, Bangladesh faced an early top-order collapse, slipping to 80 for 3. However, a resilient fightback put the chase firmly back on track.
Crucial Stand: Iftakhar Hossain Ifti and Mahidul Islam Ankon stabilized the innings, forging an unbroken 106-run partnership for the fourth wicket.
DLS Calculation: Ifti was playing a brilliant unbeaten knock of 71, with Ankon steady at 37 not out, when bad light forced play to stop at 36 overs. With the scoreboard reading 186 for 3, Bangladesh was comfortably ahead of the par score and was declared the winner by 26 runs under the DLS method.
A Strong Comeback: The victory marks a significant turnaround for Bangladesh, who suffered a heavy seven-wicket defeat against the South Africa Emerging Team in their tournament opener after being bowled out for a dismal 89.
USSA’s Struggles: This result hands USSA their second consecutive defeat in the competition.
What’s Next: Bangladesh will look to maintain their winning momentum when they face USSA again at the Irene Country Club in Centurion on August 7.
The tri-series features a double round-robin format, with the top two teams advancing to the grand final scheduled for August 12.
