Some Of Our Bowlers Were Getting Emotional, What Happened Shouldn't Have Happened: Akbar Ali

Bangladesh skipper Akbar Ali couldn’t have been happier as he remained unbeaten on 43* to see his side script history. The Tigers beat India by 3 wickets (D/L) to lift the U19 World Cup. It is the first major trophy in Bangladesh’s cricketing history. The Akbar-led side floored favorites India for 177.

And from there on, it was all about playing a sensible brand of cricket. The bowlers pushed for a collapse as India were found wanting from a comfortable situation. Avishek Das picked three wickets while Shoriful Islam, Tanzim Sakib bagged 2 wickets a piece. The marquee clash witnessed tempers flying from both camps. There were send-offs, verbal duals and lot more.

Akbar Ali reflects on the historic win and more

One incident in particular that didn’t go down well with cricket fans was the way some of the players in the Bangladesh side reacted to the scintillating win. The situation threatened to go out of control at the end but better sense prevailed. Post the contest, Akbar was pretty clear about the way things unfolded. He said certain boys in the side got a bit carried away after the nerve-wrecking contest and the skipper regrets the consequences.

“It’s a dream come true. It’s all about the hard work we have done over the last two years. The coaching staff, I just cannot thank them enough for how much support they have given us on and off the field. Some of our bowlers were getting emotional. What happened should not have happened.” Akbar opined.

He credited the support staff for the constant effort throughout the tournament and congratulated the opposition. He highlighted the never-ending support from the fans back home and those who made it to the ground. Bangladesh are only the seventh nation to have lifted the trophy. Akbar said he likes to keep things simple and that is what made the difference.

I would like to congratulate the Indian players. They have been brilliant throughout this tournament. I would like to thank our coach, assistant coaches, trainers, analyst, selectors, everybody who has helped us. We’ve had a very good experience, and this is just the beginning for us. Hopefully, this will be the starting stone for us. Those who have supported us here have been our 12th man here. We really appreciate it.” Akbar said in an attempt to forward the olive branch.