Bangladesh U19 clinch youth ODI series against South Africa

Bangladesh Under-19 team clinched the five-match

youth ODI series against South Africa by 3-2 after its thrilling three-wicket
win over the opponents in the fifth and final game today at Shaheed
Kamruzzaman Stadium in Rajshahi.

South Africa youngsters won the first match by 10 runs on DLS before
Bangladesh leveled with 14 run victory. But South Africa again led the
series, winning the third game by four wickets on DLS.

At that phase, Bangladesh needed to win the both of fourth and fifth game to
win the series and they did so, showing an unwavering resolve. In the fourth
match, the young Tigers beat South Africa by four wickets to level the series
again.

Following the template of the last four matches, the series deciding game
also had a nerve-wrecking finish with Bangladesh blowing the final punch.

After being sent to bat first, the South African youngsters were bowled out
for 210 with David Teeger making the team-high 63. Captain Juan James was the
other notable scorer with 32.

For Bangladesh, Mahfuzur Rahman Rabby scalped 3-43 to rip through South
African batting while Rohanat Doullah Borson, Rizan Hossan and captain Rafi
Uzzaman Rafi took two wickets apiece.

Ariful Islam hit 68 and opener Adil Bin Siddik struck 58 to play a crucial
role in Bangladesh’s victory. They added 87 runs for the third wicket after
Bangladesh were reduced to 48-2. The partnership was key in edging the side
closer before South Africa closed the game with a flurry of wickets.

However, Bangladesh held the nerve with Rafi Uzzaman ensuring the victory,
making 15 not out. Bangladesh finally reached winning target of 211-7 in 47.1
overs. (BSS)