Bermuda could hardly stand up against the newfound confidence of the Bangladeshi bowlers as Abdur Razzaq picked up 3/20 and was ably supported by Masrafe Murtaza (2/8) and Saqibul Hasan (2/12) as they were restricted to 94/9 in 21 overs.
In reply, Bangladesh overcame a shaky start (3/37) to romp home in the 18th over with seven wickets in hand. Saqibul Hasan (26) and Mohammed Ashraful (21) ensured there were no more upsets in the group as their partnership of 59 saw Bangladesh through to the safety of 96/3. Whatever outside chance India may have harboured was knocked out and a deserving team went through.
Bermuda’s campaign ends with another loss, but that was not unexpected. Beating Bangladesh was always going to be a tall order for them and with the added pressure of expectations from the Indian supporters, they were perhaps feeling the heat!
Bangladesh captain Habibul Bashar was still hopeful of making further dents in the World Cup and isn’t ruling out his team’s chances. Who knows, they could still turn out to be the India of 1983! Speaking after the match, Bashar said, “If we manage to carry the momentum and our performance in the Super Eights, I think we can move forward. The team is playing well and the boys were making significant contributions.” All the best as they are one of only two remaining subcontinental teams.
On Bermuda giving early early jitters
Yes, my heart was pumping a little bit," "The boys haven't been in this situation before. They have done very, very well."
On Bangladesh's prospect in the Super 8
"The players will have a wonderful experience to participate in a major tournament against six or seven best teams left." "We've worked very hard in the last year and we are playing as a team which is very important for us."
Bermuda skipper, Irvine Romaine
On four stoppages due to rain affected
"We didn't know when we were going to stay on the field and when we were going to come off,"
On Bermuda putting up a brave fight
"We really wanted to put up a challenge, the guys were up for it,I wish it was a 50 over game."
On playing at the World Cup for the first time
"It has really been amazing,"- "It really showed every game we were getting better, getting used to the competition."
On Bermuda sinking India's by not winning against Bangladesh
A quality team like India shouldn't be relying on Bermuda."
