Bangladesh produced a scintillating performance to overpower South Africa by 25 runs in the Plate semi-final of the Hong Kong Sixes, thanks to explosive batting from Habibur Rahman Sohan and Mosaddek Hossain Saikat, followed by disciplined bowling from Abu Hider Rony and Zisan Alam.
The match, held at Mission Road Ground in Mong Kok on Sunday, saw Bangladesh post a commanding total of 128 for 3 in 6 overs, before restricting South Africa to 125 runs in reply. The victory secured Bangladesh’s place in the Plate Final, where they will face hosts Hong Kong, who earlier defeated Afghanistan in the other semi-final.
After losing the toss and being sent in to bat, Bangladesh began with an absolute assault on the South African bowlers. Sohan launched four towering sixes in the opening over, setting the tone for the innings. His partner Zisan Alam followed suit in the next over, smashing another four sixes to maintain the aggressive momentum.
Continuing his onslaught, Sohan retired out after a blistering 54 off just 13 balls, featuring 1 four and 8 sixes—an innings that left the crowd in awe. Zisan contributed a valuable 24 off 7 balls before being run out, while Mosaddek added the finishing touches with a fiery 27 off 8 deliveries, including 3 fours and 2 sixes.
South Africa started their chase in style, racing to 59 off the first 15 balls. Opener Abdullah Bayumi smashed 38 from 10 balls, keeping the chase alive. However, Bangladesh made a brilliant comeback in the final phase, conceding just 44 runs off the last 20 deliveries to seal the win.
With the ball, Abu Hider Rony was impressive, taking 2 wickets for 25 runs in 2 overs, while Zisan Alam picked up 2 wickets for 15 in his only over. Their tight bowling under pressure ensured Bangladesh maintained control in the closing stages.
The summary of the match is as follows:
| Category | Bangladesh | South Africa |
|---|---|---|
| Match | Plate Semi-Final, Hong Kong Sixes | Plate Semi-Final |
| Venue | Mission Road Ground, Mong Kok | Mission Road Ground, Mong Kok |
| Innings | 128/3 in 6 overs | 125 all out |
| Top Scorer | Habibur Rahman Sohan – 54 (13) | Abdullah Bayumi – 38 (10) |
| Best Bowler | Abu Hider Rony – 2/25 (2 overs) | – |
| Result | Bangladesh won by 25 runs | – |
Bangladesh will now look to carry this momentum into the Plate Final against Hong Kong, hoping to finish their Hong Kong Sixes campaign on a triumphant note.