Rabby powers Bangladesh HP to semi-final in Top end series
|| CF DESK ||
Mahfuzur Rahman Rabby's late blitz propelled Bangladesh HP to seal a thrilling three-wicket win against Perth Scorchers in the ongoing Top End Series in Australia.
Bangladesh HP managed to restrict Perth to a below-par total of 129-5 runs after a clinical performance from the bowlers. Akbar Ali, Jishan and Rabby's joint contribution helped them chase down the target in 19.3 overs.
Winning the toss, Bangladesh kept the run-wheel in check and took wickets at regular intervals. Teague Wyllie scored the highest 56 runs and Baxter Holt 34 and Keaton Critchell 17 were the only batters to cross double digits.
Ripon Mondol and Rakibul Hasan each picked up double wickets and Abu Haider Rony got one.
Bangladesh made a terrible start in pursuit of 130 runs, stumbling on 15-3 in the first powerplay. Jishan played a cautious 26 off 26 with two boundaries.
Akbar top-scored with 35 in 33 deliveries including a boundary and three sixes. HP's were falling behind on run-rate, reducing to 89-6 in 16.1 overs. Then Rabby took charge and played a stormy 32 off 13 innings which featured two fours and an equal number of sixes.
Matthew Kelly was the pick of the bowling attack, taking three wickets and Jhye Richardson picked up a double.