Thomas Rew scored an unbeaten 59 from 50 balls as England completed a seven wicket victory over Bangladesh in Bulawayo during the Under 19 World Cup Super Six stage. The chase of 137 was completed with ease, lifting England’s net run rate and leaving them close to a semi final place. Bangladesh are now eliminated.
Rew arrived at the crease with England 39 for two and provided control through the middle of the innings. His calm approach influenced Ben Mayes, with the pair adding 78 runs from 68 balls.
Bangladesh struck early when Joseph Moores was dismissed by a catch at deep third taken by Shadhin Islam. Ben Dawkins followed after making 27 from 29 balls, pulling a delivery to deep square leg. His stand with Rew had added 36 from 40 balls.
Both wickets were taken by Al Fahad, who finished with figures of two for 37. Rew’s presence reduced Bangladesh’s energy in the field as he relied heavily on the sweep shot. Two powerful slog sweeps off Shadhin marked a clear increase in scoring rate.
Mayes was dismissed with 20 runs still required. Rew and Caleb Falconer completed the chase without further loss.
England’s bowlers and fielders laid the platform earlier in the day. Sebastian Morgan returned figures of 3 for 28. Ralphie Albert and Manny Lumsden claimed two wickets each, while Alex Green, Farhan Ahmed and James Minto also took wickets.
Bangladesh’s innings showed promise during a second wicket partnership of 46 between Azizul Hakim and Rifat Beg. The momentum shifted when Rifat edged a flighted off break from Farhan Ahmed to the wicketkeeper after scoring 31 from 36 balls.
No subsequent partnership exceeded 18 runs. England maintained pressure and dismissed Bangladesh for 136 in 38.1 overs.
