Bangladesh's first ODI win in Sharjah, thrilling 68-Run victory over Afghanistan

In a dramatic turnaround, Bangladesh defeated Afghanistan by 68 runs in the second ODI, leveling the three-match series 1-1. After posting a competitive total of 252/7, Bangladesh’s bowlers, led by Nasum Ahmed (3/28), Mustafizur Rahman, and Mehedi Hasan Miraz, wreaked havoc to bowl Afghanistan out for just 184, securing a long-awaited win after eight consecutive losses. This victory marks a significant moment for captain Najmul Hossain Shanto’s team, as they have finally ended their losing streak in a comeback game in Sharjah.

Series Now Tied After Bangladesh's Resilient Victory

Afghanistan took a 1-0 series lead after winning the first ODI by 92 runs last Wednesday. But Bangladesh made a strong recovery in the second match, setting the stage for an exciting decider in the third ODI. This win came after Bangladesh had lost their previous eight matches across series against India, South Africa, and Afghanistan.

Bangladesh Sets a Challenging Target

Batting first, Bangladesh posted a total of 252/7 in their 50 overs. Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto top-scored with 76 runs, while debutant Zakir Ali Anik played a key role in the lower order, contributing 37 not out from 27 balls, including 1 four and 3 sixes. Nasum Ahmed added a valuable 25 runs with the bat, helping Bangladesh reach a challenging total.

Afghanistan's Chase Falters Early

In reply, Afghanistan was quickly on the back foot. Taskin Ahmed made an early breakthrough by dismissing Rahmanullah Gurbaz for just 2 runs. However, Afghanistan fought back through Rahmat Shah (39) and Sediqullah Atal (52), forming a solid partnership. The duo added 52 runs for the second wicket before Nasum Ahmed struck again, dismissing Sediqullah for 39, caught by Mehedi Hasan Miraz.

Bangladesh's Bowling Dominance Leads to Afghanistan's Collapse

With Afghanistan at 118/2, Bangladesh's bowlers turned the screws, taking quick wickets. Mustafizur Rahman broke through by dismissing Afghanistan's captain, Hashmatullah Shahidi, for just 17 runs off 40 balls. In the very next over, Nasum Ahmed removed Azmatullah Omarzai for a duck, and in the same over, there was a dramatic run-out of Rahmat Shah, who had just reached 52, following a mix-up with Gulbadin Naib.

By now, Afghanistan was reeling at 119/5, and Bangladesh’s bowlers continued to dominate. In the 37th over, Shoriful Islam's first three balls saw Gulbadin Naib hit a six and a four, adding 12 runs to the total. However, he fell on the next ball, caught by Taohid Hridoy after attempting another big shot. Naib's dismissal left Afghanistan struggling at 181/8.

Further Breakdowns in Afghanistan’s Innings

Mehedi Hasan Miraz continued his excellent spell, bowling out Mohammad Nabi for just 17 runs. Miraz wasn’t finished yet, as he claimed another wicket, removing Nangyal Khahroti, who was stumped after attempting to charge down the pitch. Afghanistan were now 181/9, with just one recognized batsman remaining.

Mustafizur Rahman claimed the final wicket, dismissing Rashid Khan, and Nasum Ahmed wrapped things up by bowling out the last batter, Allah Mohammad Gazanfar, for a duck. Afghanistan were bowled out for 184 in just 43.3 overs, handing Bangladesh a 68-run victory.