South Africa Emerging Level Series with Thrilling 10-Run Win Over Bangladesh

In a high-scoring encounter at Shaheed Kamruzzaman Stadium in Rajshahi, South Africa Emerging leveled the three-match series 1–1 with a 10-run win over hosts Bangladesh Emerging, despite a valiant 131-run innings from skipper Akbar Ali.

After losing the first ODI despite posting 301 runs, South Africa came back stronger in the second match, setting a massive target of 333. Riding on solid knocks from Conor Boyd Esterhuizen (91), Charles Mogakane (55), and a late blitz from Dian Forrester (86 off 59), the visitors posted 332/7.

Bangladesh Fall Short Despite Akbar’s Heroics

Chasing 333, Bangladesh got off to a flying start but couldn't sustain the momentum. Opener Mahfijul Islam Robin, who starred in the previous game, fell early for just 10. Fellow top-order batter Ryan Rafsan followed shortly, scoring 9.

However, Zishan Alam counter-attacked with a brisk 50 off 33 balls but got out immediately after reaching his half-century. The real resistance came from Akbar Ali and Ariful Islam, who stitched together a 111-run partnership to stabilize the chase. While Ariful played a cautious knock of 35, Akbar was the aggressor, reaching his century off 85 balls.

After Akbar's dismissal for a magnificent 131 off 110 balls (14 fours, 2 sixes), Bangladesh were 291/6, needing 42 runs in the final 5 overs. Rizwan Chowdhury also fell soon after. With 32 runs required off the last 4 overs and 12 needed in the final over, Bangladesh ultimately folded for 322, falling 10 runs short.

Bowling Performances

For South Africa, it was a combined effort with the ball, capitalizing on key moments. Bangladesh’s bowlers, though under pressure, had notable performances:

• Ripon Mondol: 8 overs, 56 runs, 2 wickets

• Mahfijur Rabby: 2 wickets for 75 runs

• Maruf Mridha: 2 wickets for 65 runs

• Sheikh Parvez Jibon: Economical with 10 overs for just 27 runs but wicketless

• Chowdhury Rizwan: 1 wicket

Earlier in the day, South Africa overcame an early hiccup at 49/2, thanks to a 137-run stand between Esterhuizen and Mogakane. Forrester's late fireworks ensured a daunting total of 332/7.

Series Level at 1–1

With the series now tied at 1–1, the third and final ODI promises to be a thrilling decider as both teams look to clinch the emerging series title.