That Bangladesh got off to a balanced start after South Africa sent them in to bat first yesterday, ultimately led to them posting their highest-ever ODI score in the opening match of the World Cup. The Proteas may have been looking to unhinge the Bangladesh batting lineup with some short stuff but the batsmen were upto the task. Soumya Sarkar led from the front.
Soumya took on Lungi Ngidi, hitting the pacer for a front-foot pull shot square on the leg side on the third delivery of the fifth over. He reserved the same fate for a similar delivery in the next one. Bangladesh started to flourish through Soumya. Ngidi conceded 34 runs in the four over he bowled before going off injured. Kagiso Rabada went for 23 in his first four. Bangladesh were put on their way for a healthy score, they had overcome the pressure that South Africa had wanted to put them in.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel. Captain Mashrafe Bin Mortaza said that Soumya was given the freedom to express himself and so far it has paid dividends.
"He does something out of the box. We give him a lot of freedom as well. Play your shots and express yourself as much as you can. He is doing so well since the Ireland tri-series. In the practice match against India, we took them on," the skipper said after yesterday's match.
Mashrafe hoped that Soumya can keep going as his innings gives Bangladesh momentum and the thrust needed.
"Hopefully his confidence will keep going. He has to adjust to the swinging ball. I hope his consistency stays."
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