Fastest T20 century by Sohan leads Bangladesh to victory

Hard-hitting domestic batter Habibur Rahman Sohan has signalled his readiness for the international stage with a blistering knock. Against Hong Kong in the Rising Star Asia Cup, he smashed a century off just 35 balls — a new record for the fastest T20 century by a Bangladeshi. Powered by his assault, Bangladesh A secured an eight-wicket win with 54 balls to spare.

Losing the toss in Doha, Hong Kong posted 167 for 8 in their allotted 20 overs. Bangladesh began the chase aggressively and reached the target within 11 overs, losing only two wickets.

Openers Sohan and Zishan Alam provided a flying start. Sohan, in particular, attacked from the outset, leaving Hong Kong’s bowlers clueless. Bangladesh raced to 107 without loss in the powerplay, with Sohan reaching his fifty in only 14 balls.

The opening stand of 111 was broken when Zishan fell for 20 in the seventh over. Coming in at three, young Jawad Abrar failed to deliver in his debut match for the A team, despite earning the call-up on the back of strong Under-19 performances.

After the score reached 122 for 2, Sohan and Akbar Ali completed the remaining chase comfortably. After his 14-ball fifty, Sohan brought up his century off 35 deliveries – the fastest recognised T20 century by a Bangladeshi, surpassing Parvez Hossain Emon’s previous record of 42 balls.

At the other end, Akbar Ali produced a whirlwind cameo, smashing five consecutive sixes in the 11th over. He remained unbeaten on 41 off 13 balls.

Led by Sohan’s explosive hundred and Akbar’s rapid innings, Bangladesh A clinched a commanding victory.