Bangladesh Emerging collapse after Akbar heroics, series level at 1-1

Skipper Akbar Ali produced a valiant century but Bangladesh Emerging Team fell short by 10 runs against South Africa Emerging in a high-scoring second one-dayer at the Shaheed Kamruzzaman Stadium in Rajshahi on Wednesday.

Chasing a daunting target of 333, the hosts appeared well on course for victory, reaching 291 for four in the 45th over. Akbar led from the front with a blistering 110-ball 131, laced with 14 fours and two sixes after opener Jishan Alam contributed a brisk 34-ball 50.

However, Akbar's dismissal by Nqobani Handsome Mokoena triggered a dramatic collapse. Bangladesh lost their final six wickets for just 31 runs, eventually being bowled out for 322 in 49.4 overs.

Andile Oustin Simelane was the standout bowler for the visitors, claiming 5 for 56. Mokoena also played a crucial role with the ball, finishing with three wickets.

Earlier, South Africa Emerging posted an imposing 332 for seven after being put into bat. Dian Forreste anchored the innings with an unbeaten 96, while Connor Boyd Esterhuizen added 91 and Simelane chipped in with 55.

For Bangladesh, Ripon Mondol, Maruf Mridha, and Mahfuzur Rabby each claimed two wickets.

Bangladesh had won the opening match of the three-game series by three wickets at the same venue on Monday. The series decider will be played on Friday at the same venue.