The Bangladesh Emerging Team wrapped up their three-match ODI series against the South Africa Emerging side in style, claiming a 34-run win in the series decider to secure a 2-1 series victory.
Played at the Shaheed Kamruzzaman Stadium in Rajshahi, the hosts batted first and posted a total of 225 runs. In reply, South Africa was bowled out for 191, falling short by 34 runs.
The win was anchored by Bangladesh’s spinners, who stifled the South African batting lineup. Rakibul Hasan led the way with 4 wickets, while Mahfuzur Rahman Rabbi and Wasi Siddique chipped in with two wickets each. Tiaan van Vuuren top-scored for the visitors with 40 runs.
Earlier in the day, Bangladesh had a shaky start with the bat. Opener Mahfijul Islam Robin scored 26, while his partner Chowdhury Mohammad Rizwan was dismissed for a duck. The middle order continued to struggle as Rayan Rafsan (19) and Ariful Islam failed to provide stability.
Akbar Ali attempted to steady the innings but was dismissed for 38, and Pritom Kumar and Sheikh Parvez Jibon also fell cheaply, leaving Bangladesh reeling at 118 for 8.
However, a crucial rescue act came from Mahfuzur Rahman Rabbi and Rakibul Hasan, who formed a steady 84-run partnership. Rakibul contributed 42 off 40 balls before being dismissed, while Rabbi went on to score a vital 58, guiding Bangladesh to a defendable total of 225.
Their efforts ultimately proved match-winning, as Bangladesh’s bowlers capitalized on the pressure and sealed a hard-fought series victory.
