Hosts storm into semis

Hosts Bangladesh confirmed their semifinal berth in the 2nd Bangabandhu Cup International Kabaddi tournament following an emphatic 56-21 points victory over lowly Malaysia in a Group A encounter at the Shaheed Noor Hossain Volleyball Stadium yesterday.

The men in red and green bundled Malaysia out for five times to turn the match into a one-way traffic. Led by skipper Tuhin Tarafder, the hosts established their superiority in the first half with a lead of 26-15 points before securing 30 points in the second half.

Razib Ahmed of Bangladesh was named man of the match for his all-round performance.

The defending champions, who overwhelmed England 46-25 in their opening match, will play their third match of group stages today against Sri Lanka, who advanced to the semifinals with a match in hand.