*** Hong Kong A Clinch Victory in Dominant Fashion Against Bahrain in Hong Kong Tri Series | THE DAILY TRIBUNE | KINGDOM OF BAHRAIN

Hong Kong A Clinch Victory in Dominant Fashion Against Bahrain in Hong Kong Tri Series

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

In a one-sided encounter at the Mission Road Ground, Hong Kong A comfortably defeated Bahrain by 7 wickets in the Hong Kong Tri Series (OD) match. Bahrain, after winning the toss and electing to bat first, were bundled out for a paltry 77 runs in just 21.2 overs, thanks to a sensational bowling performance by Hong Kong A. The hosts chased down the target in 18.3 overs, losing only 3 wickets in the process.

Bahrain’s innings never gained momentum as they struggled against a disciplined Hong Kong A bowling attack. Sheryar Khan was the star of the show, claiming a magnificent 5-wicket haul for just 29 runs in 9.2 overs. His ability to strike at regular intervals dismantled Bahrain’s top and middle order. Daniel Mapp and Benny Paras provided excellent support, picking up 2 and 3 wickets respectively.

Bahrain’s batting lineup faltered from the start, with only Rizwan Butt (17 off 16 balls) and Shahbaz Badar (14 off 32 balls) managing double-digit scores. The rest of the batters failed to cope with the pressure, as wickets tumbled at regular intervals. Extras contributed 9 runs, but it was far from enough to post a competitive total.

Chasing a modest target of 78, Hong Kong A started cautiously but never looked in trouble. Shahid Wasif played a composed unbeaten knock of 31 off 32 balls, including 3 boundaries and 2 sixes, to guide his team to victory. Sunny Bhimsaria (21 off 29 balls) and Zeeshan Ali (10* off 9 balls) also made useful contributions.

Bahrain’s bowlers tried to make early inroads, with Asif Mohammad picking up 2 wickets, but the target was too small to defend. Rizwan Butt was the most economical bowler, conceding just 24 runs in 7.3 overs and taking 1 wicket. However, Hong Kong A’s batters ensured there were no hiccups, reaching the target with 31.3 overs to spare.

Sheryar Khan was deservedly named Player of the Match for his outstanding bowling figures of 5/29, which set the tone for Hong Kong A’s dominant victory.

Match Summary

Bahrain: 77 all out in 21.2 overs (Rizwan Butt 17, Sheryar Khan 5/29, Benny Paras 3/22)
Hong Kong A: 79/3 in 18.3 overs (Shahid Wasif 31*, Asif Mohammad 2/19)
Result: Hong Kong A won by 7 wickets
Player of the Match: Sheryar Khan (Hong Kong A)

Hong Kong A’s comprehensive win highlights their strength in the home ground, while Bahrain will need to regroup quickly to bounce back in their next fixture at ICC CRICKET WORLD CUP CHALLENGE LEAGUE B commmencing from 6th February in the same venue as Hong Kong hosts the tournament.