Mushfiqur Rahim scored 110 not out as Bangladesh set the Proteas a target of 279 for victory in Kimberley on Sunday, writes JON CARDINELLI.
Have Bangladesh scored enough runs to put a South African lineup stacked with big hitters under pressure? After winning the toss and deciding to bat, and after seeing how well the pitch played over the course of the innings, the tourists have reason to feel more than a little nervous.
That said, credit must go to Mushfiqur Rahim for steering Bangladesh to their highest ODI total against South Africa. Mushfiqur came to the crease in the 14th over. He played a senior role in the partnerships with Shakib Al Hasan (59 runs) and Mahmudullah (69).
After the platform was set, Mushfiqur took the fight to the Proteas bowlers in the latter overs. He finished with 110 runs off 116 balls, the highest score by a Bangladesh batsman in an ODI against South Africa.
The Proteas bowled well in patches. Bangladesh battled to get hold of Kagiso Rabada, Imran Tahir, and Dwaine Pretorius to any telling effect. The tourists had more success against debutant Dane Paterson (0-69 in nine overs) and Andile Phehlukwayo (0-60 in 10), though.
The Proteas should still be favourites to win from here. AB de Villiers has returned to bolster the batting lineup. The hosts bat a long way down and conditions are expected to favour them in the second half of the contest.
Bangladesh 278-7 (50 overs) – Mushfiqur Rahim 110 not out, Imrul Kayes 31, Kagiso Rabada 4-43, Dwaine Pretorius 2-48
South Africa need 279 runs to win
Photo: Cricbuzz
