Afghanistan triumphed over Bangladesh by five wickets in an exhilarating ODI match in Sharjah, successfully chasing a target of 245 with just ten balls to spare. This marked Afghanistan’s third consecutive series win and their first successful chase in the series, as earlier games had seen both teams defend lower scores. The win was spearheaded by a standout century from Rahmanullah Gurbaz and an all-round display by Azmatullah Omarzai, overshadowing a valiant 98-run innings from Mahmudullah that ultimately went in vain.
Afghanistan vs Bangladesh: Gurbaz Anchors Afghanistan’s Chase with a Magnificent Century
Opening the innings, Gurbaz displayed exceptional skill and maturity, securing his eighth ODI century and setting a solid foundation for Afghanistan’s chase. Known previously for struggling in chases, Gurbaz stepped up with a confident 101, with 42 of those runs coming from sixes. His 100-run partnership with Omarzai was critical, taking Afghanistan from a precarious 84 for 3 to a far more secure position.
Despite his commanding innings, Gurbaz had a bit of luck on his side, as he was dropped twice – once on 24 and again on 48. Nonetheless, his approach and aggressive stroke play kept Bangladesh’s bowlers on the defensive, which was vital for maintaining Afghanistan’s required run rate. Gurbaz’s knock proved instrumental until he fell in the 39th over, leaving the chase in Omarzai’s hands.
Omarzai’s All-Round Performance Secures the Victory
Azmatullah Omarzai emerged as the Player of the Match, delivering both with the bat and ball. His four-wicket haul for just 37 runs was instrumental in limiting Bangladesh to 244. Then, as Afghanistan’s chase reached a crucial stage following Gurbaz’s dismissal, Omarzai rose to the occasion. He struck an unbeaten 70 off 77 balls, including five sixes, one of which sealed the win with a powerful shot over long-on. His calm presence and partnership with Mohammad Nabi, who scored a brisk 34, ensured Afghanistan reached their target comfortably.
Afghanistan vs Bangladesh Bangladesh’s Middle-Order Efforts Come Up Short
Bangladesh’s innings was largely defined by a resilient 145-run stand between Mahmudullah and Mehidy Hasan Miraz after the team found itself in early trouble. Bangladesh’s top order struggled, losing four wickets for just 19 runs within six overs. However, Mahmudullah’s near-century and Mehidy’s patient 66 brought stability, taking Bangladesh from a shaky position to a competitive total.
Their partnership was initially slow, adding only 49 runs off the first 74 balls, but they picked up momentum in the final ten overs, adding 78 runs. Mahmudullah’s aggressive stroke play, including several well-timed sixes, helped boost Bangladesh’s score. However, his run-out on 98 in the final over left Bangladesh just shy of what might have been a defendable total.
Afghanistan vs Bangladesh Key Turning Points in the Match
- Afghanistan’s Early Wickets: Omarzai and Nabi’s disciplined bowling in the powerplay set the tone, removing Bangladesh’s openers and stifling their scoring rate early on.
- Bangladesh’s Middle-Order Partnership: Mahmudullah and Mehidy’s partnership provided much-needed stability, helping to lift Bangladesh’s total after a shaky start.
- Gurbaz’s Century: Gurbaz’s attacking approach not only scored quick runs but also shifted the game’s momentum firmly in Afghanistan’s favor.
- Omarzai’s Finish: Omarzai’s composed innings, marked by well-timed boundaries, guided Afghanistan to the finish line under pressure.
Statistical Highlights
- Top Scores: Rahmanullah Gurbaz (101), Azmatullah Omarzai (70*), Mahmudullah (98)
- Bowling Standouts: Azmatullah Omarzai (4-37), Rashid Khan (1-42), Mohammad Nabi (1-35)
Conclusion
Afghanistan’s series victory over Bangladesh reflects the team’s progress in handling pressure situations, particularly when chasing. Players like Gurbaz and Omarzai showcased a promising blend of experience and youthful exuberance, bolstering Afghanistan’s status as a competitive force in ODIs. This win not only caps off a successful series but also signals a bright future for Afghanistan in the international cricket arena, with fans eagerly awaiting their next performance.
