Bahrain Clinches Thrilling 3-Run Victory Over Saudi Arabia in T20 World Cup Qualifier

Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com 

Saudi Arabia won the toss and opted to bowl, setting the stage for a competitive chase. Bahrain posted a total of 188/5 in their 20 overs, with Captain Haider Butt leading the charge with a crucial knock of 67 runs off 51 balls. Butt's steady presence at the crease was complemented by Imran Anwar, who contributed a valuable 53 off 35 balls. Sohail Ahmed provided the late fireworks, smashing 30 off just 16 balls, as Bahrain finished with an impressive run rate of 9.40.

Despite the strong finish, Bahrain's early batting struggles saw the top order faltering. Umer Toor (13), Asif Ali (2), and Fiaz Ahmed (7) were dismissed cheaply, placing pressure on the middle order. However, Butt and Anwar’s partnership helped steady the innings. A few quick wickets, including a run-out of Ahmer Bin Nasir for 2, almost derailed Bahrain’s momentum, but they still managed to set a challenging target.

Chasing a total of 189, Saudi Arabia’s reply got off to a rocky start. The team lost early wickets, with Sajid Imran Cheema (8) and Faisal Khan (2) falling in quick succession. However, Abdul Waheed’s exceptional innings kept his team in the hunt. Waheed’s blistering 110 off 55 balls, including 8 fours and 7 sixes, nearly turned the game on its head. His explosive knock was the highlight of Saudi Arabia’s chase, but the support from the other batters was lacking.

With the match reaching its climax, Saudi Arabia needed 5 runs from the final over, with just one wicket remaining. Usman Najeeb (5*) showed composure, but Bahrain’s bowlers kept the pressure on. Imran Khan (2/33) and Ali Dawood (2/32) were particularly effective, taking key wickets at critical moments. Saudi Arabia ended their innings at 185/9, just 3 runs shy of their target.

Bahrain’s bowlers were solid throughout, maintaining pressure in key moments, especially in the death overs. While their performance wasn’t perfect, they stuck to their plans and ultimately managed to defend the slender lead. Dawood and Khan were the standout bowlers, while Abdul Majid (1/34) and Imran Anwar (2/34) also contributed with important wickets.

Speaking after the match, Dr. M. Sameer, Vice President of the Bahrain Cricket Federation (BCF), expressed his pride in the team’s resilience, especially given the challenges they faced with travel and fatigue. "The players displayed exceptional professionalism despite the long journeys and jet lag. They fought hard for this win, and it was an exciting contest that could have gone either way. We’re hopeful that Bahrain can build on this momentum and continue to perform well in the tournament," he said.

This thrilling victory sets Bahrain up for a strong run in the rest of the tournament. The win will no doubt boost their confidence, and they’ll be looking to carry this form into their next match against Thailand, scheduled for 22nd November 2024 at 09:00 AM. The match will be available for live streaming on ICC platforms.

Bahrain’s narrow 3-run triumph not only earns them a spot in the next phase of the Asia Sub Regional Qualifier B but also highlights their ability to thrive under pressure. With a determined team and growing momentum, Bahrain is looking to make a significant impact on the global T20 stage.