Benoni, July 18 (V7N) – The Bangladesh Under-19 cricket team kicked off their South Africa tour with an emphatic 130-run victory in the first ODI of the three-match youth series, taking a 1-0 lead.

Batting first after losing the toss at Willowmoore Park in Benoni, skipper Azizul Hakim Tamim’s side posted a formidable 285/6 in 50 overs. Jawad Abrar led the charge with a well-composed 70-run innings, supported by two vital half-centuries from Mohammad Abdullah and Rizan Hossain, anchoring the middle order.

In reply, the South African youth team struggled under pressure, losing wickets at regular intervals and crumbling to 155 all out in 32.1 overs. The only notable resistance came from Mohammad Bulbulia, who scored a fighting 72 off 79 deliveries, including 4 fours and 3 sixes, while wickets fell around him.

Bangladesh’s bowling unit delivered a collective performance, with Iqbal shining as the standout bowler, claiming 3 wickets for 26 runs in 7 overs, effectively sealing the win.

The comprehensive win sets the tone for the rest of the series. The second ODI is scheduled for July 19, followed by the third and final ODI on July 22.

END/RH/AJ