South Africa struck back with a seven-wicket win over Bangladesh on Sunday to level the day-long streak 1-1 and propel them into a crucial final.
2. ODI: South Africa Level Series with 7-wicket victory over Bangladesh (AP Photo)
South Africa recorded a seven-wicket win over Bangladesh to level the three-game streak in Sunday’s second one-day international at The Wanderers.
South Africa controlled the second ODI from the moment they passed Bangladesh 34/5 in the 13th and although the tourists recovered well until after 194/9 the Proteas got home easily
South Africa reached 195/3 in the 38th over with half a century from the returning Quinton de Kock (62 of 41 balls) and Kyle Verreynne (58 not of 77).
The win eased the pressure on the home side after Bangladesh clinched a surprise win in game one, their first win over South Africa at a South Africa ODI.
South Africa’s batsmen confirmed a win set up by the bowlers at Wanderers in Johannesburg.
Fast bowler Kagiso Rabada took 5-39 including three of those five early wickets to leave Bangladesh in a deep hole.
Afif Hossain’s fight against 72 under extreme pressure gave Bangladesh a reasonable result.
Hitting nine fours and defying the South African attack, he was part of half-century partnerships with Mahmudullah (25) and Mehidy Hasan Miraz (38).
South Africa’s early progress was cut short when bowler Wayne Parnell lost to a leg injury in just his third over and captain Temba Bavuma was forced to step in as an extra bowler.
But de Kock put South Africa on course for victory with a fast half-century in the chase after returning to the line-up after missing the opening game through illness. The left-hander started nine fours and two sixes and South Africa didn’t lose that early momentum.
Verreynne looked home after an 82-run stand with Bavuma making 37.
The series decider is back at the Centurion on Wednesday, where Bangladesh won the first game.
