Winning the toss, Bangladesh elected to bowl first, hoping to restrict the Afghan batsmen. However, the decision proved costly as Afghanistan posted an imposing total of 331 runs for the loss of 9 wickets in their allotted 50 overs. Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran were the architects of Afghanistan’s formidable innings.
Gurbaz played a sensational knock, scoring a scintillating 145 runs off 125 deliveries, including 13 boundaries and 8 sixes. Zadran provided excellent support, notching up a well-deserved century, scoring 100 runs off 119 balls, comprising 9 fours and 1 six. Despite a few quick wickets towards the end, Mohammad Nabi’s cameo of 25 runs off 15 deliveries propelled Afghanistan to a commanding total.
Bangladesh bowlers struggled to contain the Afghan batters. Mustafizur Rahman, Hasan Mahmud, Shakib Al Hasan, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, and Ebadot Hossain all managed to pick up wickets, but they were expensive in terms of runs conceded. Mustafizur was the most successful bowler for Bangladesh, claiming 2 wickets for 60 runs in his 10 overs.
Chasing the daunting target of 332 runs, Bangladesh faltered and were eventually bowled out for 189 runs in 43.2 overs. Mushfiqur Rahim fought valiantly, scoring a gritty 69 runs off 85 balls, including 6 boundaries. However, his efforts were not enough to rescue Bangladesh from a heavy defeat.
Fazalhaq Farooqi and Mujeeb Ur Rahman wreaked havoc with the ball for Afghanistan, taking 3 wickets each. Farooqi, in particular, was exceptional, finishing with figures of 3 wickets for just 22 runs in 7.2 overs. Mujeeb also impressed, claiming 3 wickets for 40 runs in his 10 overs. Rashid Khan chipped in with 2 wickets, while Nabi provided vital breakthroughs as well.
“After 3-4 innings, I was in a hard situation. Thanks to the captain and coach, they backed me. That was the plan from the coach and captain, today I took my time and it was easy for me. The credit goes to him (Ibrahim Zadran) as well, he is a very good player and best wishes for him,” said Gurbaz after the match.
For latest cricket news & updates, visit CricketTimes.com.