Cricket – Bahrain’s Muhammad Salman impressed with a disciplined bowling performance, but powerful batters from Qatar, well backed up by bowlers, secured a comprehensive 51-run victory over Bahrain in the final match of the series giving Qatar 4-1 resounding series victory.
Qatar didn’t hesitate to bat first after winning the toss, and posted a winning total of 205 for 6, before their bowlers tightened the screws to restrict Bahrain to 154 for 8.
Qatar’s innings was built on a series of aggressive partnerships. After the early loss of Saqlain Arshad (16), Zubair Ali took centre stage, smashing a rapid 56 off just 37 balls, laced with seven boundaries and two sixes.
He found able support from Imal Malindu (24), before Mirza Mohammed provided the late fireworks. Mohammed blazed his way to 32 from a mere 20 deliveries, propelling Qatar past the 200-run mark. Shariq Munir then added a quickfire 35 not out from 14 balls to ensure a challenging total.
For Bahrain, Muhammad Salman was the pick of the bowlers, claiming 3 for 25, while Muhammad Rizwan chipped in with two wickets.
In response, Bahrain’s chase never truly gained momentum. The top order struggled against a varied and economical Qatari attack. Prashant Kurup fought hard for his 27, but wickets fell at regular intervals to keep the required rate climbing.
Sohail Ahmed played a lone hand of defiance, remaining unbeaten on a splendid 64 from 46 balls, but he found little support at the other end. The Qatari bowlers, Muhammad Ikramullah and Daniel Archer, strangled the run flow, taking two wickets apiece and maintaining relentless pressure. Saqlain Arshad, Mirza Mohammed, and Shariq Munir also picked up a wicket each to complete a fine all-round display in the field.
The series 4-1 win was a testament to Qatar’s balanced performance, with both bat and ball firing in unison, leaving Bahrain with much to ponder.
&uuid=(email))