In a thrilling turnaround, Bangladesh showcased a stellar performance in the third ODI against Afghanistan, emerging victorious by a comfortable 7-wicket margin. Despite having already lost the series after conceding the first two games, the hosts demonstrated resilience and determination to salvage a win. The key highlight of the match was the dominant display by the Bangladeshi bowlers, who decimated the Afghan batting lineup.
As it happened
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, Afghanistan set foot on the pitch with hopes of building a formidable total. However, their aspirations were soon shattered as they struggled against a formidable Bangladeshi bowling attack. The Afghan innings crumbled under immense pressure, as they managed to accumulate only 126 runs before losing all 10 wickets.
The Afghans started losing wickets from the 2nd over. The star of the bowling display was pacer Shoriful Islam, who single-handedly wreaked havoc by claiming four crucial wickets. Pacer Shoriful Islam broke Afghanistan’s top order when he came to bowl in the 2nd over. He picked up Ibrahim Zardan and Rahmat Shah in the same over.
Supported by the relentless efforts of Taskin Ahmed and Taijul Islam, who secured two wickets each, the Bangladeshi bowlers effectively dismantled the Afghan batting lineup. Afghanistan had gone four men down in 15 runs only. However, relying on Omarzai’s 56 runs, Afghanistan ended their innings with 126 runs only.
Chasing a modest target of 127, Bangladesh exhibited a composed and disciplined batting performance. Although Naeem Islam and Nazmul Hossain Shanto departed early, captain Liton Kumar Das displayed immense composure at the crease.
Forming a resilient partnership of 61 runs with the experienced Shakib Al Hasan, Liton steered the team towards victory with calculated stroke play. Despite Shakib’s dismissal after contributing 39 runs, Liton remained resolute and unbeaten, accumulating an impressive 53 runs to guide his team to triumph.
Towhid Hridoy provided valuable support with an unbeaten knock of 22 runs, ensuring Bangladesh reached the target within 23.3 overs.
With this resounding victory, Bangladesh exhibited their true potential as a formidable cricketing force. The exceptional bowling performance showcased their ability to restrict their opponents to a meager total, while the composed and disciplined batting ensured a smooth chase.
The win serves as a testament to the team’s resilience and fighting spirit, despite facing an uphill battle after losing the first two matches of the series.
As the series draws to a close, Bangladesh can take solace in their victorious display, carrying the momentum forward into future encounters. This triumph will undoubtedly serve as a source of inspiration and motivation for the team, propelling them toward continued success in the cricketing arena.
