CRICKET – BAHRAIN fell to a narrow loss against Tanzania yesterday in the Arjun Menon Memorial T20 Cup, currently being played in Malawi.
In a high-scoring affair, Tanzania chased down a formidable target of 210 runs to defeat Bahrain by six wickets with four balls to spare. The match, filled with explosive batting and dramatic moments, kept fans on the edge of their seats till the very end.
Opting to bowl first after winning the toss, Tanzania faced a fierce batting display from Bahrain. Fiaz Ahmed was the standout performer, smashing 61 off just 35 balls, including three fours and six sixes, at a blistering strike rate of 174.29. He was well-supported by Asif Ali (40 off 31) and Prashant Kurup (32 off 21), who provided a strong start.
Late fireworks from Imran Anwar (22 off nine) and Junaid Aziz (14 off four) propelled Bahrain to a daunting 209/5 in 20 overs. For Tanzania, Ally Mpeka (2/45) and Kassim Chete (1/39) were the pick of the bowlers.
In reply, Tanzania’s openers came out all guns blazing. Arun Yadav played a breathtaking knock, hammering 84 off just 32 balls (nine fours, six sixes) at a staggering strike rate of 262.50. His explosive innings set the tone for the chase before he was run out.
Ajith Augastin anchored the innings with an unbeaten 61 (43 balls), while Mukesh Suthar (30 off 16) and Salum Ally (12 off five) provided the finishing touches.
Despite losing wickets at crucial stages, Tanzania held their nerve to reach 215/4 in 19.2 overs, sealing a memorable victory.
Yadav’s 84 (32) was the game-changer, shifting momentum in Tanzania’s favour. Tanzania’s middle-order composure, coupled with Augastin’s calm presence, guided the team home.
Bahrain are back in action today against Germany. They then face Tanzania again tomorrow, and hosts Malawi on Saturday.
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