Bangladesh suffered a gut-wrenching four-run loss to South Africa at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium on Monday in the ICC T20 World Cup. However, they remain in a strong position to progress to the Super 8s with clashes against Netherlands and Nepal on the horizon.
South Africa's bowlers, spearheaded by spinner Keshav Maharaj, held their nerve to defend a meagre 11 runs in the final over, securing a tense victory and virtually sealing their passage to the next stage.
The Proteas have enjoyed a perfect run in Group D so far, triumphing in all three of their matches played on the unpredictable New York wicket. Bangladesh, meanwhile, have one win and one defeat from their two outings.
South Africa's qualification is only at risk if Nepal manage improbable victories in their remaining matches, coupled with Netherlands winning both of their final fixtures. Even in this unlikely scenario, net run rate could still see the South Africans through.
Bangladesh can take heart from their position and will fancy their chances of progression with encounters against Netherlands and Nepal ahead. Group D standings show the Tigers in second place, having edged a close contest against Sri Lanka in their opening game.
They faltered against South Africa in a nail-biting encounter but remain well-placed to qualify.
Assuming Sri Lanka's campaign falters after two defeats, Bangladesh likely only need to overcome their primary challengers, Netherlands, in their next match. Even a victory over Nepal in their final game could suffice for qualification on net run rate, should the need arise.
