Isaac Mohammed Century Powers England U19 to Series-Levelling Win Over Bangladesh

Isaac Mohammed Century Powers England U19 to Series-Levelling Win Over Bangladesh

A brilliant century by Isaac Mohammed propelled England Under-19 to a four-wicket victory over Bangladesh Under-19, levelling the five-match Youth ODI series 1-1 at Loughborough.

Chasing a challenging target of 273, England rode on Mohammed’s 104 off 95 balls — an innings laced with nine boundaries and showcasing remarkable power and timing. He was well supported by opener Joe Moores, who added 47 in a solid opening stand of 68 runs.

Bangladesh earlier posted 272 for 9 in 47 overs (three overs lost due to rain), thanks to half-centuries from Rizan Hossan (57) and Rifat Beg (51). England’s bowlers kept the visitors in check, with James Minto once again impressing, claiming 3 for 48, following up his five-wicket haul in the series opener.

Moores Stars with Bat and in the Field

Joe Moores not only contributed with the bat but pulled off one of the moments of the match with a sensational one-handed diving catch at slip to dismiss KS Aleen off Manny Lumsden. His sharp reflexes helped swing the momentum back towards England after Bangladesh had made a strong start.

Moores later reflected, “It felt like it was going in slow motion. It’s always special when one like that sticks.”

He also spoke about his trademark scoop shot for six, saying, “I try to play to my strengths early. That kind of shot is something I practice and enjoy.”

Bangladesh Falter After Strong Start

Despite the early loss of Zawad Abrar, Bangladesh reached 67 for 1 in 10 overs, before a sudden collapse post the drinks break. Beg, Tamim, and Aleen fell in quick succession, leaving them 126 for 4 inside 20 overs.

Hossan, who struck a huge six onto a nearby rooftop, put together a vital 69-run stand with Mohammed Abdullah, but once Hossan fell at 218 for 6, Bangladesh struggled to finish strongly.

Jack Nelson, who impressed again after making his debut in the first game, finished with 2 wickets, while Al Fahad provided a late flourish to push Bangladesh to a respectable 272.

Mohammed Leads the Chase

In reply, England started briskly, reaching 50 in under 7 overs. Mohammed anchored the innings, reaching his second consecutive fifty off 69 balls before converting it into a match-winning century. He fell shortly after reaching the landmark, but Jack Nelson (35)* and Ralphie Albert ensured there were no further hiccups, guiding England home with 3.5 overs to spare.

Captain Thomas Rew and Will Bennison chipped in with small but useful contributions as England overcame a mid-innings wobble to chase down the target.

What’s Next?

With the series now tied at 1-1, both teams will head to Bristol for the third Youth ODI on Tuesday, with everything to play for.

Match Summary:

  • Bangladesh U19: 272/9 in 47 overs (Hossan 57, Beg 51; Minto 3-48, Nelson 2-34)

  • England U19: 273/6 in 43.1 overs (Mohammed 104, Moores 47; Basir 3-35)

  • Result: England U19 won by 4 wickets

  • Series: 5-match series level at 1-1