BSS
  14 May 2025, 19:52

 SA emerging team trumps Akbar ton to beat Bangladesh

DHAKA, May 14, 2025 (BSS)- Skipper Akbar Ali hit a brilliant century but that was not enough to stop visiting South African Men's Emerging team, who romped to a 10-run victory over Bangladesh Men's Emerging team in the second match to level the three-match series at Rajshahi Stadium today.

    In the first, Bangladesh chased down 301 for a three-wicket victory.

    South Africa this time was one step ahead as they compiled a hefty 332-7, thanks to two 90 plus score from Dian Forrester and Connor Esterhuizen. 

    Forrester was the aggressor by hitting a six-laden 96 not out. He clubbed seven fours and six sixes to give the late impetus that took the total out of the reach of hosts. Esterhuizen made 91.

    Andile Mokgakane was the other notable scorer with 55.

     Ripon Mondol, Maruf Mridha and Mahfuzur Rahman Rabby took two wickets apiece for Bangladesh.

    Andile Simelane claimed 5-56 to play a vital in the side's narrow victory, pipping Akbar's century.

    Opener Jishan Alam gave Bangladesh a whirlwind start with 34 ball-50 and then Akbar Ali kept the side on course of yet another victory. But Simelane kept striking at regular basis with the help of Nqobani Mokoena who took 3-52.

    Akbar was the fifth batter out when Mokoena dismissed him after his 110 ball-131, studded with 14 fours and two sixes.

    When Akbar was departed, Bangladesh were still in the position of dominance as they needed just 42 runs in 30 overs with five wickets at hands.

    But Simelane triggered a collapse, taking four of the last five as Bangladesh fell short of 11 runs for a victory, being dismissed for 322 in 49.4 overs.

    Simelane was adjudged man of the match for his effort to snatch the victory from the jaws of the defeat.

    The series deciding third one-day game was on Friday at the same venue.