KEY POINTS
- Captain Azizul Hakim’s half-century (64) guided Bangladesh to a seven-wicket win.
- A collective bowling effort, led by Iqbal Hossain Emon’s 3/41, restricted the USA to a subpar 199.
HARARE: A commanding all-round performance powered Bangladesh to a seven-wicket victory over the United States of America in the ICC Men’s U19 World Cup on Friday, securing their place in the Super Six stage and eliminating the Americans from the tournament.
The win at Takashinga Sports Club, built on a disciplined bowling effort and a composed chase led by captain Azizul Hakim, marked Bangladesh’s first victory of the competition. The result confirmed that both Bangladesh and New Zealand would progress from Group B, bringing the USA’s campaign to a close with just a single point.
Bowlers set up a comfortable chase
Electing to field first after winning the toss, Bangladesh’s bowling attack efficiently restricted the USA to a below-par total of 199 all out in their 50 overs. The American innings never gained momentum, with only middle-order batter Adnit Jhamb (68* off 69) offering sustained resistance. Opener Sahil Garg (35) and captain Utkarsh Srivastava (39) made starts but failed to convert them into major scores.
The bowling honours were shared amongst the Bangladeshi attack, with Iqbal Hossain Emon leading the way with an excellent spell of 3 for 41 from his full quota of 10 overs. He was ably supported by Al Fahad, Shahriar Ahmed, and Rizan Hossan, who claimed two wickets each to consistently break partnerships.
Hakim anchors effortless pursuit
Facing a modest target of 200, Bangladesh’s chase was systematic and largely untroubled. Openers Zawad Abrar (47) and Rifat Beg (30) provided a solid foundation with a 78-run stand. After two quick wickets, captain Azizul Hakim took control, playing a mature anchoring innings.
Hakim’s 64 off 82 balls, featuring two fours and two sixes, steadied the innings. He shared a crucial 88-run partnership for the third wicket with Kalam Siddiki (30* off 55), which effectively sealed the match. Bangladesh eventually reached the target in just 41.3 overs, winning with 51 balls to spare.
The USA bowlers, including Ritvik Appidi, captain Srivastava, and Garg, could only manage a wicket each against the assured Bangladeshi batting.
Group B picture clears
The victory propels Bangladesh into the next round alongside New Zealand. The Kiwis, who have two points from two washed-out games, will face India in the group’s final fixture on Saturday. A win for New Zealand in that match would see them finish second in the group behind India.
For Bangladesh, the comprehensive nature of this win will provide a significant confidence boost as they prepare for the tougher challenges of the Super Six phase.
