Bahrain Defend Modest Total in Bangi
Bahrain secured a hard-fought seven-run victory over Thailand in Match 2 of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup Asia Sub Regional Qualifier A, successfully defending a total of 104 at the
After Thailand won the toss and elected to field, they immediately put pressure on the Bahraini batting lineup. Nopphon Senamontree led the charge for the Thai bowlers, delivering a tidy spell that returned figures of 2/15 from his four overs. Bahrain struggled to build momentum throughout their 20 overs, eventually finishing on 104/6.
Disciplined Bowling Secures Victory
Facing a target of 105, Thailand’s chase began under immediate pressure as they lost an early wicket. The momentum of the innings was further hampered when Chaloemwong Chatphaisan fell at 24 in the 4.1 over, a moment that proved to be the turning point of the match. From that stage, Bahrain’s bowlers maintained a tight grip on the game, preventing any substantial partnerships from forming.
Pattarapol Jirapatananukul top-scored for Thailand with 23 off 25 balls, supported by Phanuphong Thongsa, but the required run rate remained a constant challenge. Asif Javed and Abdul Majid were instrumental in restricting the Thai batters, ensuring that the pressure remained on the chasing side throughout the final overs. Despite their efforts, Thailand could only manage 97/8 by the close of their 20 overs, falling just short of the target. The victory marks a significant start for Bahrain in the tournament, highlighting their resilience in defending a challenging, low-scoring total.
