South Africa vs Bangladesh, 1st ODI: Shakib, Mehidy drive Bangladesh to historic win

Mar 18, 2022

South Africa vs Bangladesh, 1st ODI: Shakib, Mehidy drive Bangladesh to historic win  Image

Bangladesh finally managed to win an ODI in South Africa as they successfully defended a target of 315 at SuperSport Park in Centurion. In the process, they gave themselves a massive opportunity to add another feather in their cap: if they win one out of the next two matches, they will win the series. Chasing 315, South Africa were bowled out for 276.

Given his recent controversy with the board over commitment issues, all eyes were on Shakib Al Hasan. He rose to the occasion, scoring 77 in 64 balls to veer his team to a stiff total. The tone, however, was set by the batters preceding him, Tamim Iqbal and Liton Das. They added 95 for the opening stand before Tamim got pinned leg-before by Andile Phehlukwayo on 41. Liton fell in the next over, soon after reaching his fifty. 

Bangladesh slipped from 95/0 to 124/3 after Mushfiqur Rahim became the second victim of Keshav Maharaj. Shakib and Yasir Ali led the recovery with a 115-run stand for the fourth wicket. Yasir's 44-ball 50 comprised four fours and two sixes. 

In response, South Africa lost three wickets for just 36. Taskin Ahmed struck twice in his opening spell to get rid of Kyle Verreynne and Aiden Markram, while Shoriful Islam got the better of Janneman Islam. 

Then an 85-run stand brewed between Temba Bavuma and Rassie van der Dussen. Bavuma, however, was unable to score freely and took 55 balls for his 31. After van der Dussen fell for 86, David Miller kept South Africa in the hunt with a quick 79, but the hopes vanished after he got stumped off Mehidy Hasan Miraz (4-61).

Bangladesh 314/7 in 50 overs (Shakib Al Hasan 77; Keshav Maharaj 2/56) beat South Africa 276 in 48.5 overs (Rassie van der Dussen 86; Mehidy Hasan 4/61) by 38 runs. Player of the Match: Shakib Al Hasan