In an impressive quarterfinal performance at the Hong Kong Sixes 2024, Bangladesh sailed past the UAE, securing a spot in the semifinals.
Mohammad Saifuddin’s all-round brilliance shone through, helping Bangladesh dominate with both bat and ball.
After UAE opted to bowl first, Bangladesh's openers, Jishan Alam and Abdullah Al Mamun, set a solid foundation. Initially cautious, Jishan and Mamun took just 9 runs in the first over but soon shifted gears, scoring 20 runs in the second. By the end of the third over, they had reached 45 without losing a wicket. Mamun contributed a quick-fire 31 off 11 balls before being dismissed in the fourth over, paving the way for Saifuddin, who blasted an unbeaten 36 off just 9 balls. Jishan also remained unbeaten, finishing on 34 from 17 balls, lifting Bangladesh to an imposing 111/1 in their 6-over innings.
UAE's Muhammad Zuhaib claimed a single wicket, but Bangladesh's relentless batting left the remaining bowlers struggling to gain control.
In response, UAE faced immediate trouble. Saifuddin struck twice in the first over, setting UAE back early. Although Abu Hider Rony kept things tight with a controlled second over, conceding only 7 runs, the third over brought mixed fortunes as Mamun gave away 28 runs but managed to take a critical wicket, dismissing Sanjit Sharma.
Despite a brief fight from UAE’s middle order, they were ultimately unable to chase down the target, handing Bangladesh a comfortable victory and a semifinal berth. This comprehensive win underscores Bangladesh’s strong form as they look to claim the Hong Kong Sixes title.
