CRICKET – Bahrain's senior men’s cricket national team made an historic achievement in the Asian Games 2026 Men’s Qualifier in Singapore.
In an impressive display of power-hitting, the visitors posted their highest-ever T20I total of 212/8 in 20 overs against the home team en route to claiming a narrow victory by two runs.
The innings was headlined by a breathtaking knock from middle-order batter Shujaat Rasool, who scored 54 runs off just 16 balls, including three boundaries and six towering sixes – earning him Player of the Match honours.
His half-century is now recorded as the third-fastest fifty in T20I history – a monumental feat for Bahrain cricket on the international stage.
Adding to that celebration, the Bahrain Cricket Federation (BCF) announced yesterday that the International Cricket Council (ICC) has nominated Bahrain for the prestigious ICC x Rexona Criiio Cricket Festival of the Year award, recognising extraordinary moments of skill and flair in the game.
Expressing his elation, BCF advisory board chairman Mohammed Mansoor praised the team’s fighting spirit and their historic achievement.
“This is a truly proud and blessed Friday for Bahrain cricket,” said Mansoor.
“To post our highest T20I total and witness Shujaat produce one of the fastest fifties in T20I history is a moment of immense pride for every Bahraini cricket fan.”
“The team has shown that we can compete with flair and fearlessness on the international stage.”
“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the players, the coaching staff, and the entire Bahrain cricket family. This is just the beginning of a very exciting journey.”
BCF general secretary Kishore Kewalram highlighted the significance of the result for the sport’s growth in the kingdom.
“Records are meant to be broken, but what our team achieved is special,” said Kewalram.
“Two-hundred-and-twelve runs and a 16-ball fifty – these numbers reflect the hard work and dedication put in over the last few years.”
“Bahrain for the ICC x Rexona Criiio Cricket Festival is a testament to the raw talent in Bahrain and the rising profile of associate cricket.”
“On behalf of the federation, I thank the fans for their unwavering support and assure them that Bahrain cricket is committed to reaching even greater heights. Together, we are building a legacy.”
Bahrain’s win against Singapore came in their third and final fixture of the Asian Games 2026 Men’s Qualifier.
They had earlier lost their opening two assignments – against Hong Kong by eight wickets and against Oman by 20 runs.
Hong Kong and Oman both advanced to today’s semi-finals, where they will take on Malaysia and Nepal, respectively.
All four teams also booked their berths in this year’s Asian Games.
The qualifiers’ final and third place play-off will be held tomorrow.
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