Bangladesh thump South Africa to level series at 1-1

Monday, 13 July 2015 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Dhaka (Reuters): Bangladesh thrashed South Africa by seven wickets in the second one-day international on Sunday to tie the three-match series at 1-1 after an inspired bowling performance saw the Proteas bundled out for 162, their lowest total against the hosts.

Teenage fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman and off-spinner Nasir Hossain picked up three wickets each as the tourists were all out in 46 overs after winning the toss and opting to bat first on a sluggish pitch at Mirpur.

Bangladesh lost two early wickets to Kagiso Rabada in their chase but opener Soumya Sarkar (88 not out) and Mahmudullah (50) added 135 for the third to ensure the hosts continued their fine form in the 50-over version of the game at home.

Bangladesh blanked Pakistan and then defeated twice world champions India in their last two ODI series and Sunday’s victory was only their second in the format against South Africa, who won the first match of the series by eight wickets.

The hosts romped to the target with more than 22 overs to spare and the win also sealed their spot amongst the top eight-ranked nations for next year’s Champions Trophy in England.

Chittagong will host the third and final ODI of the series on Wednesday.