In a nail-biting encounter at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, South Africa emerged victorious over Bangladesh on the final ball, edging closer to securing a spot in the Super 8 stage. The game hinged on a bold decision by South Africa’s captain Aiden Markram, who entrusted spinner Keshav Maharaj with defending 11 runs in the last over. Maharaj’s exceptional performance, dismissing Jaker Ali and Mahmudullah, secured a historic 4-run win for South Africa as they successfully defended the lowest total in the tournament’s history.
Bangladesh faced a daunting task chasing a modest target of 114 runs. Despite a slow start by openers Tanzid Hasan and Najmul Hossain Shanto, Bangladesh managed to build momentum with Towhid Hridoy and Mahmudullah’s partnership. However, Rabada’s crucial breakthrough shifted the momentum in favor of South Africa, and Maharaj’s decisive wickets sealed the victory for the Proteas.
Earlier, in South Africa’s innings, Tanzim Hasan Sakib and Taskin Ahmed led a fiery bowling attack that rattled the Proteas’ top order. Despite Quinton de Kock’s brisk start, South Africa struggled against Bangladesh’s disciplined bowling. However, Heinrich Klaasen and David Miller staged a remarkable recovery with a crucial partnership, steering South Africa back into contention. Bangladesh’s tight bowling in the death overs restricted South Africa to a total of 113/6.
With both teams delivering impressive performances, the thrilling encounter showcased the competitive spirit of the tournament. In the end, South Africa’s strategic decisions and disciplined bowling proved decisive, securing a crucial win over Bangladesh.