Soumya Sarkar and Mahmudullah struck half-centuries after Bangladesh dismissed South Africa cheaply, crushing the Proteas by seven wickets in the second ODI to tie the three-match series in Dhaka Sunday.
Soumya hit a stroke-filled unbeaten 88 while Mahmudullah made 50 as Bangladesh raced to 167-3 with more than 22 overs in hand, keeping Bangladesh in the series after Friday’s first game loss.
Earlier the home team made swift work of the visitors, bowling with heart for 162 runs in 46 overs, effectively making the contest a one-sided affair.
Kagiso Rabada, who had set a new one-day debut bowling record in the previous match, raised hopes when he bowled out Tamim Iqbal (five) and litton Das (17). But Soumya and Mahmudullah stood firm for a 135-run third wicket stand as the Tigers carried the game safely in front of packed stadium.
Earlier, Nasir Hossain finished with a career best 3-26 while left-arm pacer Mustafizur Rahman grabbed 3-38 as South Africa were bowled out with their lowest score against Bangladesh.
Rubel Hossain, who returned to the starting lineup for leg-spinner Jubair Hossain, made an instant impact by knocking the stumps off Hashim Amla (22). South Africa began to feel the pressure when Nasir bowled Rilee Rossouw off his first ball and Mahmudullah sent David Miller home by forcing him to give a simple catch to Mortaza.
Faf Du Plessis, who looked solid holding one end, holed out a catch at long-on to Soumya Sarkar off Nasir. His departure after the top score of 41 from 64 balls firmly swung the game in favour of the hosts.
Brief Scores
South Africa: 162 (Faf du Plessis 42, Farhaan Behardien 36; Mustafizur 3/38, Nasir Hossain 3/26) lose to Bangladesh: 167/3 (Sarkar 88, Mahmudullah 50; Rabada 2/45) by 7 wickets.