DHAKA, July 12

Soumya Sarkar and Mahmudullah struck half-centuries after Bangladesh dismissed South Africa cheaply, crushing the Proteas by seven wickets in the second one-day international to level the three-match series in Dhaka today.

Soumya hit a stroke-filled unbeaten 88, while Mahmudullah made 50 as Bangladesh raced to 167-3 with more than 22 overs in hand, keeping Bangladesh in the series after Friday’s loss. Earlier the home team made swift work of the visitors, bowling with heart for 162 runs in 46 overs.

Kagiso Rabada raised hopes when he bowled out Tamim Iqbal (five) and Litton Das (17). But Soumya and Mahmudullah stood firm for a 135-run third wicket stand as the Tigers carried the game safely. Soumya, who faced 79 balls and hit 13 fours and a six, swept Imran Tahir over the mid wicket fence to complete the victory — only Bangladesh’s second against South Africa in 16 ODIs.

The win also cemented their place in the eight-team ICC Champions Trophy, scheduled to be held in England in 2017.

Earlier, Nasir Hossain finished with a career best 3-26, while left-arm pacer Mustafizur Rahman grabbed 3-38 as South Africa were bowled out with their lowest score against Bangladesh. Mustafizur drew the first blood in the fifth over when he forced a leading edge from opener Quinton de Kock as Sabbir Rahman took a simple catch at backward point, while Rubel Hossain knocked the stumps off Hashim Amla (22).

South Africa began to feel the pressure when Nasir bowled Rilee Rossouw off his first ball, and Mahmudullah sent David Miller home to leave the visitors wobbling at 74-4. Faf Du Plessis holed out a catch at long-on to Soumya Sarkar off Nasir. His departure after the top score of 41 firmly swung the game in favour of the hosts.

Mustafizur deceived JP Duminy with an off cutter, forcing him to give a catch at short cover to Sabbir for 13 before Rubel trapped Chris Morris leg-before for 12. Farhaan Behardien, who survived an LBW decision after it was overturned by the TV umpire, held Bangladesh off to score 36 before he became the last man to be dismissed. The third and final match of the series will be held in Chittagong on July 15.