South Africa thrash Bangladesh in the first T20I

South Africa beat Bangladesh by 52 runs

South Africa have begun their new season in style by demolishing Bangladesh by 52 runs in the first T20 International at Dhaka. Skipper Faf du Plessis won the toss and elected to bat first on what was a pretty tough wicket to score runs on. 

This was also the first match that was played under the new ICC regulations which meant that all no balls would result in free hits. South Africa showed intent by having AB de Villiers open the innings alongside Quinton de Kock, but the move failed as the ODI skipper got out in the very first over for 2 runs. 

But Faf steadied the innings after judging the pitch to perfection as he led South Africa to a total of 148 for the loss of four wickets. He finished unbeaten on 79 from 61 deliveries and Rilee Rossouw stuck a quickfire 21-ball 31 in the end. 

Bangladesh in return were never in a position of control as they kept losing wickets at regular intervals. Their openers were dismissed cheaply and the experienced duo of Shakib Al-Hasan and Mushfiqur Rahim provided some solidity. But then, they lost their last 8 wickets for just 46 runs. Shakib top scored with a 30-ball 26, and their next highest was debutant Litton Das’ 22. 

JP Duminy was the pick of the bowlers as he gave away just 11 runs in his 4 overs picking up two wickets in the process. Faf du Plessis was adjudged the player of the match.