Flying Start for Junior Tigers in South Africa

The Bangladesh U-19 cricket team got off to a fantastic start in their South Africa tour, defeating the South Africa U-19 side by a massive 130 runs in the first ODI.

Batting first, Bangladesh posted a strong total of 285 for 6 in their allotted overs. In reply, the hosts were bowled out for just 155 runs, giving Bangladesh a comprehensive win.

Jawad Abrar led the charge with a brilliant knock of 70 off 61 balls, hitting 9 fours and 2 sixes. Captain Azizul Hakim Tamim added 26 runs. In the middle order, both Rizan Hossain and Md. Abdullah scored 63 each, anchoring the innings and helping Bangladesh reach a commanding total.

For South Africa, J. Bason was the standout bowler, claiming 4 wickets for 47 runs.

Chasing a challenging target, South Africa found themselves in early trouble, losing 4 wickets for just 56 runs. They continued to lose wickets at regular intervals and never managed to recover.

Mohammad Bulbulaiya was the top scorer for the hosts with 72 runs, while Paul James chipped in with 24.

However, Bangladesh’s bowlers were relentless, dismissing South Africa for 155 in just 32.1 overs. Iqbal Hossain Emon and Swadhin Islam were the pick of the bowlers, taking three wickets each.

It was a commanding performance from the Junior Tigers, setting the tone for the rest of the series.