Jowads brilliance powers Bangladesh to second straight win over Nepal

Bangladesh sent out another strong statement in the Under-19 Asia Cup with a confident performance in Dubai, registering their second consecutive victory as they continue their title defence. Dominating with both bat and ball, the Young Tigers eased past Nepal to maintain their winning momentum.

In Monday’s match, Bangladesh defeated Nepal Under-19 by seven wickets. Batting first, Nepal were bundled out for just 130 runs, a target Bangladesh chased down comfortably in 24.5 overs. Opener Jowad Abrar emerged as the standout performer, remaining unbeaten on a composed 70 off 67 balls.

Earlier, after winning the toss, Bangladesh opted to bowl first. Disciplined spells from Mohammad Sabuj and Saad Islam kept Nepal under constant pressure, as they were dismissed in 31.1 overs. Sabuj led the attack with three wickets, while Saad Islam, Shahriar Ahmed and Azizul Hakim picked up two wickets each.

Chasing a modest total, Bangladesh lost Rifat Beg and Azizul Hakim early, but Jowad steadied the innings with a crucial partnership alongside Kalam Siddiqui Elin. Elin scored 34 off 66 balls before departing, but Jowad held firm at one end to guide the chase. Rizan Hasan then finished the match in style with a flurry of boundaries and sixes.

Bangladesh had earlier opened their campaign with a win against Afghanistan, where Jowad top-scored with 96 runs. With two wins from two matches, the two-time defending champions are well placed in the race for the semifinals from Group ‘B’. Azizul Hakim Tamim’s side will face Sri Lanka in their final group-stage match.