CRICKET – Bahrain lost to hosts Hong Kong by nine wickets yesterday in their ICC CWC Challenge League B match, played at Kowloon Cricket Club.
The home team chased down Bahrain’s total of 182 with ease, thanks to a stellar performance by Martin Coetzee, who was named Player of the Match.
Hong Kong won the toss and elected to bowl knowing the home conditions and adapted well with success as Bahrain’s innings got off to a shaky start. Openers Rishabh Ramesh (16 off 52) and Shahbaz Badar (nine off 43) struggled to find momentum against a disciplined Hong Kong bowling attack. Asif Ali provided some resistance with a well-made 40 off 63 balls, but it was Sohail Ahmed who stood out with an unbeaten 70 off 66 deliveries, including one four and six sixes. His aggressive batting towards the end helped Bahrain post a respectable total of 182.
Hong Kong’s bowlers shared the spoils, with Nasrulla Rana (3/43) and Ehsan Khan (3/17) being the pick of the attack. Aizaz Khan (2/39) and Yasim Murtaza (1/25) also contributed with crucial wickets, ensuring Bahrain were bowled out in 49.4 overs.
In reply, Hong Kong’s chase was anchored by a magnificent century from Coetzee, who remained unbeaten on 100 off 109 balls. His innings was laced with 11 fours and five sixes, showcasing his dominance over the Bahrain bowlers.
Coetzee was well-supported by Anshuman Rath, who scored a fluent 79 off 100 balls before being caught off the bowling of Sai Sarthak. The duo put on a 165-run partnership for the first wicket, effectively sealing the game for Hong Kong.
Babar Hayat was at the crease when the winning runs were scored, finishing on zero not out. Hong Kong reached the target in just 34.5 overs, with a commanding run rate of 5.37.
Hong Kong’s win kept them in a strong position in the ICC CWC Challenge League B, as they continue their quest for qualification to the next stage of the World Cup pathway.
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