The possibility of a series loss looms large as in a few hours from now South Africa appears in the second match of three matches ODI series. For a pleasant change favored South Africa is on the cusp of getting whitewashed by underdog Bangladesh in the ongoing ODI series. Surprising many Bangladesh cake walked to a historic first win in the first ODI by 38 runs in the first ODI played at Super Sports Park, Centurion.
In a few hours today teams lock horn at Wanderers, Johannesburg. Bangladesh having momentum may wrap up the series today if they can maintain composure. The same South African team only a couple of months back comprehensively whitewashed strong India in ODI series. Bangladesh in 20 years in 19 previous matches in formats lost all matches playing in South Africa. In all pre-match analysis Bangladesh was assessed as rank outsider. But contrary to all speculations turned the table on favorite opponent playing wonderfully aggressive all round cricket.
It is true that Bangladesh in the past failed to perform to their potential while playing in South Africa. But at the same time, it is also true that the four senior world-class players Shakib, Tamim, Mushfique and Mahmudullah together form the most experienced players in ODI. Not even Australia, India, New Zealand or South Africa possess such a group of quality experienced players. South Africa is not an unknown team. Bangladesh in 2015 won an ODI series 2-1 in Bangladesh. When Bangladesh beat South Africa in 2007 World Cup in West Indies three of the four senior players were performers. All four were in the Bangladesh team when Bangladesh beat South Africa again in 2019 World Cup played in England. On the other hand, South Africa whatever strong they are is not much experienced. Hence from that point of view none should consider Bangladesh winning the first ODI as an upset. They have the potential to win against any team anywhere in the cricket world on their day.
The key was making the main protean weapons Rabada and Ngidi ineffective. For that credit must go to openers Tamim and Litton giving a solid start. Another positive was star all rounder Shakib playing a fluent and aggressive innings of 77 and rookie Yasir (50) playing superbly. Bangladesh score of 314/7 was made a distant target as Taskin and Shoriful struck early blows when South Africa replied. Temba Bavuma, Rassie van der Dussen and David Miller almost pulled off an improbable win. But Tamim kept his cool marshaling his resources admirably. Mehedy Miraj despite of leaking runs in his early overs turned the tide taking 4 quick wickets after Taskin removed Dussen.
With a 1-0 lead in the series, Bangladesh starts as favorite today in Pink day ODI. Home team would be under huge pressure. The IPL bound top players would be desperate for a win. Bangladesh can exploit the opportunity. It will be a major milestone achieved if Bangladesh can wrap up the series today.
BDST: 1330 HRS, MAR 20, 2022
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