DUBAI: Ashiqur Rahman Shibli’s commanding innings of 129 runs led Bangladesh’s U19 team to clinch the ACC Men’s U19 Asia Cup 2023, defeating the United Arab Emirates (UAE) by a convincing margin of 195 runs. This victory marks Bangladesh’s first triumph in the U19 Asia Cup.
Opting to bat first, Bangladesh U19 faced an early setback, losing their first wicket with only 14 runs on the board. However, Shibli anchored the innings, forming crucial partnerships, including a solid 125-run stand with Chowdhur Md Rizwan. Despite regular wickets falling, Shibli waged a lone war, contributing significantly to Bangladesh’s total.
Bangladesh U19 concluded their innings at 282-8, with Shibli’s remarkable 129 runs coming to an end in the final over. UAE bowler Ayman Ahamed impressed with figures of 4-52, while Omid Rehman picked up two wickets.
UAE Batting Against Bangladesh in U19 Asia Cup Final
In response, UAE struggled to build momentum, losing wickets consistently. Bangladesh’s Maruf Mridha and Rohanat Doullah Borson showcased brilliant bowling, reducing UAE to 39-4 within ten overs. Despite a resilient effort from Dhruv Parashar, UAE’s batting lineup couldn’t withstand the pressure.
Bangladesh bowlers displayed exceptional skill, bowling out UAE for a mere 87 runs in 25 overs. Parashar remained unbeaten with the top score of 25, while Mridha and Borson claimed three wickets each.
Ashiqur Rahman Shibli, who not only played a key role in the final but also emerged as the tournament’s highest run-scorer with 255 runs, was named the Man of the Match and the Man of the Tournament.
