Clinical Bangladesh Restricts Hong Kong To 143

Hong Kong’s innings got off to a shaky start after they were asked to bat first. Anshy Rath fell early for just 4 runs, while Babar Hayat managed 14 before being bowled, leaving Hong Kong reeling at 30-2 in the powerplay.

Zeeshan Ali and Nizakat Khan attempted to stabilize with a cautious 41-run stand, but it was hindered as Tanzim Hasan Sakib crashed through. Zeeshan, who scored 30 off 34, including one six and three fours, fell on the third wicket.

Nizakat Khan continued as the top scorer of the innings, holding up the middle of the overs with an excellent 42 in 40 balls, two fours and a six. He was abetted by skipper Yasim Murtaza, who came to the rescue, scoring a quick 28 with just 19 balls, with two boundaries and two sixes. Their 46-run partnership looked promising, but Bangladesh once again struck at the right time to stop Hong Kong’s late charge.

The final overs saw Bangladesh tighten the screws. Rishad Hossain’s sharp spin and Taskin Ahmed’s pace kept the batters in check. Both bowlers recorded two wickets each, and Tanzim Hasan Sakib also had two wickets; Hong Kong was not able to get away.

Wickets were dropping like flies, and the runs were not coming. The innings was complete, and Hong Kong finished on 143-7 - a score that left Bangladesh well in charge in the chase.