South Africa Emerging Set 333-Run Target for Bangladesh in Second OD

South Africa Emerging bounced back strongly in the second match of the three-match unofficial ODI series against Bangladesh Emerging, setting a massive target of 333 runs. After losing the first match despite scoring 301, the visitors came out with intent at Shaheed Kamruzzaman Stadium in Rajshahi.

Put into bat after losing the toss, South Africa Emerging suffered an early setback, losing two wickets for 49 runs. However, a 137-run stand between Connor Boyd Esterhuizen and Andile Charles Mogakane stabilized the innings.

Esterhuizen narrowly missed out on a century, scoring a blistering 91 off just 68 deliveries, laced with 9 fours and 3 sixes. Mogakane supported well with 55 runs before falling late in the innings. Earlier, Micha-Eal Prince contributed a handy knock nearing 30, while captain George Van Heerden managed just 12 before falling to Ripon Mondol.

After a mini-collapse in the middle order, Dayaan Forresta took charge in the death overs, smashing an unbeaten 96 off 59 balls, featuring 7 boundaries and 6 sixes. Despite missing out on a century, his explosive finish helped the team reach a commanding 332 for 7 in 50 overs.

Among the Bangladeshi bowlers, Ripon Mondol claimed 2 wickets for 56 runs in 8 overs, and Mahfijur Rabbi also picked up 2 wickets, albeit conceding 75 runs. Maruf Mridha ended with 2 wickets for 65 runs from 8 overs, while Chowdhury Rizwan took one. Sheikh Parvez Jibon was economical, giving away only 27 runs in his full quota of 10 overs but remained wicketless.

Bangladesh Emerging now need 333 runs in 50 overs to win the second match and seal the series with one game to go. They lead the series 1–0 after a thrilling chase in the first ODI.