Bangladesh collapse after Imrul fifty

A changed batting order in Bangladesh's second innings against Cricket South Africa Invitation XI backfired on the third and final day of their lone practice game today.

Bangladesh were 110 for four at lunch, before Sabbir Rahman's unbeaten half-century took them to 187 for six by the time drinks rolled around, giving Bangladesh a lead of 180 runs. Taijul Islam was unbeaten on three at the other end.

Resuming the day with one-run arrear in the face of the home side's 313 for eight declared, Bangladesh lost makeshift opener Liton Das for two. 

The wicket-keeper batsman, who had scored a duck in the first innings batting at number eight, failed to do justice to his promotion. He came to open the innings alongside Imrul Kayes following the team management's understandable decision to not risk Tamim Iqbal, who had retired hurt five overs into the first day with a strained thigh muscle.

However, Imrul scored 51 after returning to his customary position after a long time. The left-hander hit seven fours and a six during his 84-ball knock, but his dismissal sparked a mini-collapse as Bangladesh slumped from 81 for to 96 for four. 

Skipper Mushfiqur could add only three runs to the total before becoming the first victim of leg-break bowler Shaun von Berg, who also had Mominul Haque for 33.

It was really disappointing for Mominul to not play a big innings after getting starts in both innings. Soumya Sarkar did not come out to bat after his first-innings 43. 

However, Mahmudullah got the opportunity to have some batting practice after his first-innings duck. Unfortunately he was dismissed on 15 by slow left-armer Leus du Plooy, who also sent back Mehedi Hasan for 14.

However, Sabbir turned the tide of the game in Bangladesh's favour once again as he notched up a quickfire fifty, taking just 67 balls to reach the landmark with the help of six fours.

Bangladesh’s first Test against South Africa starts on September 28.

Source: thedailystar