A nail-biting finish saw Bahrain narrowly defeat Saudi Arabia by just three runs yesterday in a thrilling encounter in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Asia Sub Regional Qualifier B, held at West End Park International Cricket Stadium in Doha, Qatar.
Both teams fought valiantly to the very last ball in what was a dramatic contest, showcasing the true spirit of T20 cricket.
Saudi, after winning the toss and opting to bowl first, faced a competitive target set by Team Bahrain of 188/5 in their 20 overs. Captain Haider Butt led from the front, scoring a vital 67 off 51 balls, anchoring the innings with solid support from Imran Anwar, who struck a well-made 53 off 35 balls. Sohail Ahmed’s quickfire 30 off 16 balls gave Bahrain the late push they needed, finishing the innings with a run-rate of 9.40.
However, Bahrain’s top order was tested early, with Umer Toor (13), Asif Ali (two), and Fiaz Ahmed (seven) falling cheaply. The middle order, though, stepped up to ensure Bahrain posted a defendable total. The innings was marred by a couple of quick dismissals, including Ahmer Bin Nasir who was run out for just two, but Butt and Anwar’s partnership steadied the ship.
In reply, Saudi got off to a shaky start, losing early wickets. Sajid Imran Cheema (eight) and Faisal Khan (two) fell early, but Abdul Waheed, in a stunning display of batting, kept Saudi Arabia in the hunt. His explosive 110 off 55 balls, which included eight fours and seven sixes, was a spectacular effort, but it wasn’t enough to see his team home.
Saudi Arabia’s middle order collapsed under pressure, with Waji Ul Hassan (four), Abdul Manan Ali (25), and Abdul Wahid (eight) failing to contribute enough to take the game beyond Bahrain’s reach.
As the game came down to the final over, Saudi needed five runs to win. With just one wicket in hand, it was anyone’s game. Usman Najeeb (five) remained calm, but Bahrain’s bowlers, led by Imran Khan and Ali Dawood, held their nerve to secure a thrilling victory for Bahrain by a mere three-run margin. Saudi finished at 185/9 after 20 overs.
Bahrain’s bowlers, although not exceptional, did enough to maintain control throughout the match. Dawood (2/32) and Khan (2/33) were the standout bowlers, while Majid (1/34) and Anwar (2/34) also contributed with key wickets.
The bowlers stuck to their plans and kept the pressure on Saudi, especially in the death overs, to prevent them from crossing the line.
Bahrain Cricket Federation (BCF) vice-president Dr M Sameer praised the players for their resilience after their recent back-to-back tours. “The boys displayed professionalism, especially after enduring jet lag and long layovers,” said Dr Sameer. “Despite the fatigue, they managed to start the tournament on a high note.
“It was an exciting contest, and both teams performed admirably. The match was too tight to call, and it was anyone’s game until the final delivery.
“We are hopeful that Bahrain continues this momentum and makes our country proud. We are desperate to perform well in this tournament.”
With this victory, Bahrain have given themselves a solid foundation for the rest of the tournament. The win ensures their place in the next stages of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Asia Sub Regional Qualifier B.
Bahrain next take on Thailand on Friday at 9am, Bahrain time. The action can be watched live on ICC.TV.
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