The Proteas were never in control while chasing a mammoth 331-run target at The Oval.
Bangladesh made the perfect start to their World Cup campaign as their highest one-day international score inspired a 21-run win over a beleaguered South Africa on Sunday.
Mashrafe Mortaza’s side posted 330/6 as Mushfiqur Rahim (78) and Shakib Al Hasan (75) laid the foundations of their impressive display at the Oval.
Mahmudullah’s boisterous 46 not out from 33 balls pushed Bangladesh past their previous highest One-day international total of 329/6 against Pakistan in 2015.
Attempting to become the first team to successfully chase more than 330 to win a World Cup match, South Africa’s bid to rewrite the record books fell short at 309 for eight.
Proteas skipper Faf du Plessis scored 62 from 53 balls, but Bangladesh seamer Mustafizur Rahman took three wickets and economical spinners Shakib and Mehidy Hasan wrapped up a memorable victory.
After reaching the World Cup quarter-finals in 2015, Bangladesh once again look capable of shaking up cricket’s established order, much to the delight of their army of vociferous supporters who packed the Oval.
