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South Africa defeated Bangladesh by just four runs in another low-scoring game at the T20 World Cup on Monday, a result likely to spark fresh debate over the suitability of the pitch being used in New York.

South Africa were restricted to 113-6 in their 20 overs with Heinrich Klaasen top-scoring on 46 while fast bowler Tanzim Hasan Sakib returned a career-best 3-18. However, Bangladesh could only manage 109-7 in reply as South Africa wrapped up a third win in three Group D games.

Towhid Hridoy, who top-scored with 40 when Bangladesh defeated Sri Lanka in their opener, and 38-year-old Mahmudullah steadied the ship for the Tigers. Hridoy scored highest 37 today.

Jaker Ali, Mahmudullah and Taskin Ahmed had golden opportunities to secure a win but failed to do so, extending Bangladesh's losing streak to nine T20Is against South Africa.

Following Hridoy’s departure, Bangladesh managed just two runs in the 18th over. New batter Jaker struggled to make contact and could not find the boundary off a low full toss in the penultimate over. Bangladesh managed seven runs from that over, leaving them needing 11 runs off the final six balls.

In the final over, Jaker failed to score off the third ball, a low full toss. With the pressure building both Jaker and Mahmudullah were caught by Aiden Markram going for big heaves over long on.

“Everyone was nervous, but were confident when Jaker was there. It didn't happen but that's okay. Tanzid really worked hard last couple of games, we needed new-ball wickets and he showed his character. This is the match we should have won, we nearly did but the last couple of overs they bowled well. It can happen in cricket. Rishad is very good, he's bowled well in the last two games and in practice. We've struggled with legspin in 10-15 years but hope he goes far. Wherever we play, we get a lot of support. Hope it's the same in the West Indies.” Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto said after the game.

Chasing just 114 to win on the controversial drop-in strip at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, Bangladesh initially struggled in the face of the Proteas' pace battery.

"It was not a nice one to watch, it was good that the boys got it over the line. The wicket is not too great for strokeplay." said Klaasen.