Shanto, Jaker, Nasum won 50,000 Afghanis each

Bangladesh leveled the series at 1-1 with a thrilling 68-run win over Afghanistan in the second ODI, after a streak of 8 consecutive losses across series against India, South Africa, and Afghanistan. Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto was the standout performer with the bat, scoring a solid 76 runs off 119 balls. Although Shanto was named Player of the Match, both Nasum Ahmed and Jaker Ali Anik were also rewarded with equal prize money for their outstanding performances.

Shanto's 76 runs were crucial in helping Bangladesh set a challenging total of 252. His knock was composed and paced well, ensuring that Bangladesh's innings was anchored after early wickets fell. For his efforts, Shanto was awarded the Player of the Match trophy along with 50,000 Afghanis (approximately 88,000 Bangladeshi Taka).

Nasum Ahmed made a brilliant return to international cricket, having not played for nearly a year. He was instrumental with both ball and bat in Bangladesh's victory. In his first over, Nasum struck early, and by the end of his spell, he had taken 3 wickets for 28 runs in 8.3 overs. In addition to his bowling, Nasum also contributed with the bat, scoring 25 runs off 24 balls, including two sixes and a boundary. His all-round performance earned him the ‘Game Changer of the Match’ award, along with a prize of 50,000 Afghanis.

Jaker Ali Anik, making his ODI debut, also played a key role in the victory. Batting at number seven, Jakerr scored an unbeaten 37 runs off 27 balls, hitting one four and three sixes. His vital 46-run partnership with Nasum towards the end helped Bangladesh push past 250 runs. Zakir's three sixes in the match earned him the ‘Most Sixes of the Match’ award, along with 50,000 Afghanis.

With this win, Bangladesh has leveled the series 1-1, and the third and final match will take place on Tuesday, with both teams vying for the series victory.