CRICKET – BAHRAIN fell to a six-wicket defeat to Hong Kong yesterday in the third match of the Hong Kong Tri-Series.
The hosts chased down Bahrain’s modest total of 134 runs with 109 balls to spare.
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, Bahrain struggled against Hong Kong’s disciplined bowling attack. Opener Rishabh Ramesh was dismissed for just one run in the first over, setting a challenging tone for the innings.
While Asif Ali (29 off 50 balls) and Imran Anwar (29 off 61 balls) attempted to stabilise the innings, wickets fell at regular intervals.
The standout bowler for Hong Kong was Nasrulla Rana, who delivered an exceptional spell, claiming four wickets for 22 runs in his 10 overs. Ehsan Khan and Yasim Murtaza also contributed significantly, each securing two wickets and maintaining economical figures.
Bahrain’s innings concluded at 134 runs in 41.1 overs.
In response, Hong Kong’s chase began with a minor setback as opener Martin Coetzee was bowled by Imran Khan for two runs in the first over. However, a solid partnership between Babar Hayat and Nizakat Khan steadied the innings. Hayat played a pivotal role, scoring 61 runs off 71 balls, including six boundaries and three sixes.
Nizakat Khan remained unbeaten with a composed 42 runs off 61 balls, guiding Hong Kong to victory. Imran Khan and Abdul Majid were the notable bowlers for Bahrain, each claiming two wickets.
Nasrulla Rana’s outstanding bowling performance earned him the Player of the Match award.
This victory added two points to Hong Kong’s tally in the Tri-Series standings.
The Tri-Series will now see the home team Hong Kong clashing with unbeaten Uganda, who aim to maintain their winning momentum and lift the cup.
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