SA Emerging vs Bangladesh: Day 1 Highlights | Four-Day Series

SA Emerging Men Keep Fight Alive on Rain-Hit Day 1 in Chattogram

Strong Resistance from SA Emerging as Shibli’s Ton Leads Bangladesh Emerging on Day 1

Chattogram, May 20, 2025 – South Africa Emerging Men made a solid, determined start to their two-match four-day series against Bangladesh Emerging at the Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium, Chattogram. Despite a truncated first day due to rain interruptions, both teams experienced moments of dominance, with the hosts finishing slightly ahead at 213/4 in 70 overs, led by a brilliant century from 19-year-old opener Ashiqur Rahman Shibli.

While rain robbed the game of valuable overs, the opening day was anything but dull. South Africa’s bowlers showed great control in testing subcontinental conditions and ensured they stayed in the contest by chipping away at regular intervals. Wickets from Tshepo Ntuli, Tiaan van Vuuren, and Andile Simelane, combined with a run-out, kept Bangladesh Emerging from completely running away with the advantage.

Ashiqur Shibli Anchors Bangladesh with Elegant Century

Winning the toss and electing to bat first, Bangladesh Emerging found early rhythm through Shibli, whose 104 off 143 deliveries was a masterclass in balance and timing. With 16 boundaries and one towering six, his knock held the innings together and showed maturity beyond his years.

Shibli’s composure at the crease was evident from the start. Alongside fellow opener Chowdhury Md Rizwan, he added 69 for the first wicket. Rizwan’s dismissal trapped lbw by off-spinner Ntuli for 12 broke the early momentum, but Shibli remained unfazed. He found another able partner in Aich Mollah, and the duo nearly doubled the score with a 60-run stand for the second wicket.

When Mollah fell lbw to van Vuuren for 24, Bangladesh were 129/2, but Shibli remained the linchpin of the innings, going on to score his century with grace and attacking intent. His dismissal, run out on 104 following a mix-up with Shahadat Hossain, gave South Africa Emerging a crucial breakthrough late in the day.

SA Emerging Show Discipline with the Ball

For SA Emerging Men, the task was clear contain Bangladesh’s young batting unit while adapting to low bounce and variable pace. The bowling group delivered a disciplined effort, with each breakthrough coming at crucial intervals.

Tshepo Ntuli, known for his control and variation, struck the first blow with the important wicket of Rizwan. Tiaan van Vuuren, with his upright seam and intelligent angles, removed Mollah and was instrumental in the Shibli run-out alongside keeper Ntando Zuma. Andile Simelane, who has impressed in recent domestic circuits, capped off the day with the scalp of Ariful Islam, caught by Muhammad Manack for three.

While Bangladesh ended stronger with Shahadat Hossain (42 off 121)* and Pritom Kumar (11)* in an unbeaten 38-run stand, the Proteas did well to keep themselves within striking distance going into Day 2.

Day 2 to Start Early After Rain Interruptions

Rain was a recurring spoiler on Day 1, allowing only 70 of the scheduled 90 overs. As a result, Day 2 will commence 30 minutes earlier than planned, at 09:00 local time, to make up for the lost time. The South African camp will be eager to strike early and regain control of the game with fresher conditions aiding their pace and spin combo.

Focus on Development and Opportunity

The South Africa Emerging Men’s tour of Bangladesh represents more than just results. It’s a developmental initiative to expose upcoming domestic talent to challenging conditions overseas. Under the leadership of George van Heerden, the young squad features a balanced mix of pace, spin, and promising batters, all aiming to make a case for higher honours.

Notably, this series follows a competitive three-match one-day series where Bangladesh Emerging clinched the trophy 2-1. Now, with the red-ball format underway, the four-day matches offer a different kind of test technique, temperament, and adaptability.

Match Schedule: Two Four-Day Fixtures

The opening match runs from May 20 to 23 in Chattogram, while the second fixture will be held at the iconic Sher-E-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Dhaka from May 27 to 30. Both matches offer ample opportunities for young cricketers from both nations to gain exposure and experience.

South Africa’s selection strategy emphasizes a broad representation of provincial systems, with players from the Lions, Dolphins, Titans, Knights, and Warriors all getting chances to shine. This includes exciting names like Connor Esterhuizen, Meeka-eel Prince, and Andile Mogakane, who have impressed in domestic circuits.

As the series progresses, performances in these games may well become stepping stones to higher honors including future Proteas call-ups.