Bahrain Clinches Thrilling Victory Over Singapore in CWC Challenge League B
TDT | Manama
The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com
Email: hussainm@newsobahrain.com
Cricket: In a gripping encounter at Entebbe Cricket Oval, Bahrain edged out Singapore by just 2 wickets in Match 7 of the ICC CWC Challenge League B, 2024-26. A win that will certainly be remembered for its drama, Bahrain's pursuit of Singapore's modest total of 145 all out required a resolute chase, navigating early setbacks before pulling off the victory in 41.4 overs to reach 146/8.
Bahrain's chase was anchored by Haider Butt, whose composed 51 runs off 62 balls proved to be the bedrock of their success. Butt's knock was vital, as wickets fell regularly around him, but his maturity and focus ensured that Bahrain stayed in the hunt despite the pressure mounting.
At the other end, Abdul Majid’s cautious 5 runs from 51 balls epitomized the role of a steadfast supporter. His patient innings was a quiet but critical contribution, ensuring the chase remained on track as Bahrain’s middle order faced the pressure of falling wickets. His ability to rotate the strike and hold up one end was crucial in allowing Butt and others to take calculated risks.
Although Sohail Ahmed (21 off 56) made vital contribution, it was Abdul Majid's resilience in tough circumstances that allowed the team to chase down the target in 47.4 overs.
For Singapore, the bowling attack was spearheaded by Harsha Bharadwaj, who was a constant threat, finishing with 3 wickets for 38 runs from his 10 overs. Bharadwaj’s accuracy and consistency were pivotal in stalling Bahrain's chase, taking wickets at crucial intervals and putting the chase in jeopardy.
Alongside Bharadwaj, Aahan Achar also impressed, bagging 2 wickets for 30 runs from 10 overs, while Akshay Puri provided further control with 1 wicket for 27 runs. Despite their efforts, the total of 145 was always going to be challenging to defend without a few more breakthroughs.
Earlier, Singapore’s batting struggled to post a competitive total. After winning the toss and opting to bat first, they were restricted to 145 all out in 47.4 overs. The top scorer for the team was Rohan Rangarajan, who managed 33 runs from 53 balls, but the rest of the batting lineup faltered under pressure.
Bahrain’s bowlers were clinical throughout, with Imran Anwar, Ali Dawood, Abdul Majid and Sachin working in tandem to pick up wickets at key moments. It was a disciplined bowling performance, where the bowlers kept the pressure on, forcing Singapore's batters to make mistakes. Bahrain’s disciplined fielding and sharp catching also contributed significantly to their dominance with the ball.
With this victory, Bahrain secures their first points in the ICC CWC Challenge League B, a crucial step as they look to continue building momentum in the competition. It was a match that showcased the unpredictability of the game, with both sides fighting tooth and nail, but it was Bahrain who had the final say in the thrilling two-wicket win.
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