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In what was anticipated to be a closely contested World Cup match, Bangladesh secured a resounding six-wicket victory over Afghanistan in Dharamsala on Saturday (October 7).
Bangladesh chased down the target of 157 runs in less than 35 overs. Mehidy Hasan Miraz (57 and 3/25) was successful with the bat and the ball. Shakib Al Hasan (3/30) contributed as a bowler, while Najmul Hossain Shanto (59 not out) made sure the chase was smooth. It was an easy win after Afghanistan messed up a good start.
After being put into bat, the opening pair of Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran began impressively. They built a promising partnership of 47. Both were assertive against the fast bowlers, prompting Bangladesh skipper Shakib to introduce himself into the attack.
Shakib outwitted Ibrahim when he was on 22. Rahmat Shah then joined Gurbaz and they seemed to have stabilized the innings. Gurbaz displayed composure and was well supported by Shah. They rotated the strike until a lapse in concentration led to Rahmat’s dismissal.
Skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi stepped in but struggled for rhythm. Shakib and Mehidy created pressure on both Gurbaz and Shahidi. The latter, attempting to break free, played an aerial shot and was caught by Towhid Hridoy.
Mustafizur Rahman returned to the attack and removed the dangerous Gurbaz, who couldn’t read a slower ball and offered a catch to Tanzid Hasan. This dismissal left Afghanistan at 112 for four after 26 overs. Gurbaz’s wicket marked a turning point, as Bangladesh bowled two maiden overs, seizing complete control of the situation. Shakib, who has a strong recent record against Najibullah Zadran, secured his third wicket by dismissing the left-hander in the 29th over. After struggling initially, Taskin Ahmed took the crucial wicket of Mohammad Nabi.
Bangladesh swiftly wrapped up the innings, with Afghanistan losing their last four wickets for a mere six runs. The Bangladesh spinners proved highly effective, capitalizing on the variable bounce of the pitch. Afghanistan’s performance was disappointing, considering that they had beaten Bangladesh in an ODI series not too long ago.
The target of 157 was not daunting. Bangladesh needed one solid partnership. They suffered an early setback when Tanzid was run out. Litton Das, who had been struggling for form, contributed only 13.
However, it was Mehidy batting at No 3, who played a pivotal role with his composed knock which came off 73 balls. Najmul provided valuable support and guided the team to victory in 34.4 overs.
Afghanistan were never really in the game apart from maybe the first powerplay. However, as they faltered and lost wickets, it became increasingly evident who was going to win the match.