Bangladesh stun South Africa to level series
Bangladesh continued their impressive home run as they stunned South Africa by 7 wickets in the second ODI at Mirpur to level the 3-match ODI series. After losing the 1st ODI by 8 wickets, South Africa were expected to impose themselves on the home team to wrap up the series, but they made a disastrous start after choosing to bat first.
Mustafizur removed de Kock early in the 5th over for just two runs. Just when it looked like Amla and du Plessis were consolidating, Rubel Hossain dismissed the South African captain. From there on, they kept losing wickets and ended up scoring just 162.
In reply, the home side were dealt an early blow as the newcomer Rabada removed Tamim Iqbal for just 5 runs in the second over. He then dismissed Litton Das in his next over, which gave the South Africans hope. But then, opener Soumya Sarkar took control and forged a 135-run partnership with Mahmudullah to ensure that there were no more hiccups. He remained unbeaten on 88 from just 79 balls and was named the player of the match.
This win has also sealed their spot in the Champions Trophy. It’s now a face-off between Pakistan and West Indies for the final spot. The series decider will be played on the 15th.