Bangladesh Defeats South Africa to Reach Hong Kong Sixes Final

Despite a heavy loss to Australia in the quarter-finals, Akbar Ali’s side refused to bow out. On Monday, Bangladesh secured a place in the final of the Hong Kong Sixes by defeating South Africa in the semi-final at the Mission Road Ground in Hong Kong. The victory showcased the team’s mental resilience and ability to bounce back.

In this six-over tournament, a quarter-final loss does not mean immediate elimination. As per the tournament rules, the four losing teams enter the Plate round, competing in the Plate semi-finals for a chance to play for the trophy.

Batting first against South Africa, Bangladesh posted 128 runs for 3 wickets in 6 overs. Openers Sheikh Habibur Rahman and Zisan Alam provided a blazing start. Habibur scored 27 runs off 4 sixes in Abdullah Beumi’s first over, while Zisan reached his fifty in the very next over, scoring 24 runs off just 7 balls. Towards the end, Mosaddek Hossain played a quick cameo of 27 runs off 8 balls, helping Bangladesh reach 128.

Chasing 129, South Africa started aggressively but Bangladesh maintained control. Despite the attacking efforts of openers Zorich van Schalkwyk and Beumi, the disciplined bowling of Zisan Alam and Abu Haider Roni kept the Proteas in check. South Africa managed 103 runs in 6 overs, handing Bangladesh a 25-run victory and a place in the final.