Shibli’s ton lifts Bangladesh Emerging Team on rain-hit opening day

Opener Ashikur Rahman Shibli struck a brilliant century to help the Bangladesh Emerging Team reach 233 for 4 at stumps on a rain-marred opening day of the first four-day match in a two-match series against their South African counterparts in Chattogram today.

Shibli scored 104 off 143 balls, including 16 fours and a six, while Shahadat Hossain Dipu (42 not out) and Pritom Kumar (31 not out) also made solid contributions at the close of play after the hosts elected to bat first at the Bir Sreshtho Flight Lieutenant Matiur Rahman Stadium.

Play was interrupted at least twice due to rain, with only 70 of the scheduled 90 overs possible on the opening day.

For South Africa, Tiaan Michael, Tshepo Innocent, and Andile Oustin claimed a wicket each, while centurion Shibli was dismissed via a run-out.

The hosts had earlier clinched the three-match one-day series 2–1 in Rajshahi.