CRICKET – Bahrain suffered a seven-wicket loss to Hong Kong A yesterday in their Hong Kong Tri Series (OD) match.
After winning the toss and electing to bat first, Bahrain were bundled out for a paltry 77 runs in just 21.2 overs, thanks to a sensational bowling performance by Hong Kong A. The hosts chased down the target in 18.3 overs, losing only three wickets in the process.
Bahrain’s innings never gained momentum as they struggled against a disciplined Hong Kong A bowling attack.
Sheryar Khan was the star of the show, claiming a magnificent five-wicket haul for just 29 runs in 9.2 overs. His ability to strike at regular intervals dismantled Bahrain’s top and middle order. Daniel Mapp and Benny Paras provided excellent support, picking up two and three wickets, respectively.
Bahrain’s batting line-up faltered from the start, with only Rizwan Butt (17 off 16 balls) and Shahbaz Badar (14 off 32 balls) managing double-digit scores.
The rest of the batters failed to cope with the pressure, as wickets tumbled at regular intervals. Extras contributed nine runs, but it was far from enough to post a competitive total.
Chasing a modest target of 78, Hong Kong A started cautiously but never looked in trouble. Shahid Wasif played a composed unbeaten knock of 31 off 32 balls, including three boundaries and two sixes, to guide his team to victory. Sunny Bhimsaria (21 off 29 balls) and Zeeshan Ali (10 off nine balls) also made useful contributions.
Bahrain’s bowlers tried to make early inroads, with Asif Mohammad picking up two wickets, but the target was too small to defend. Butt was the most economical bowler, conceding just 24 runs in 7.3 overs and taking one wicket.
However, Hong Kong A’s batters ensured there were no hiccups, reaching the target with 31.3 overs to spare.
Sheryar Khan was deservedly named Player of the Match for his outstanding bowling figures of 5/29, which set the tone for Hong Kong A’s dominant victory.
Hong Kong A’s win highlighted their strength on their home ground, while Bahrain will need to regroup quickly to bounce back in their next fixture at the ICC Cricket World Cup Challenge League B, commencing from Thursday. Hong Kong are hosts of the tournament.
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