Bangladesh bounce back to beat Afghanistan, draw level series 1-1 in Sharjah

Bangladesh beat Afghanistan by 68 runs in a battle of spinners to win the second one-day international in Sharjah and level the three-match series on Saturday.

Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto scored a watchful 76 to help Bangladesh to a fighting total of 252-7 after opting to bat first.

Bangladesh then bowled Afghanistan out for 184 in 43.3 overs, with left-arm spinner Nasum Ahmed taking 3-28. Off-spinner Mehidy Hasan Miraz and left-arm quick Mustafizur Rahman both grabbed two wickets apiece.

Rahmat Shah made 52 and opener Sediqullah Atal added 39 to put Afghanistan on solid footing, but Atal fell to Nasum and Rahmat was run out after a mix-up with Gulbadin Naib as the match turned in Bangladesh’s favour.

Naib (26), Mohammad Nabi (17) and Rashid Khan (14) got starts but could not go big as Mehidy and Mustafizur did not allow the batters to settle.

“The wicket was difficult, especially against spinners,” said Najmul. “The way Miraz and Nasum were bowling, credit goes to them.”

Afghanistan skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi admitted batting second was a challenge.

“It was tough to bat under lights,” said Shahidi. “I think they scored 40 runs in the last five overs and that was the reason.

“We did well but the wicket was used, and it was tough to bat in the second innings.”

Najmul put on 71 with Soumya Sarkar (35) for Bangladesh’s second wicket and another 60 with Mehidy who scored 22.

Left-arm spinner Nangeyalia Kharote dimissed Najmul and Mahmudullah Riyad in the same over and at 184-6 Bangladesh seemed to have lost their way.

It was debutant Jaker Ali (37 not out) and Nasum (25) who contributed 46 for the seventh wicket to revive Bangladesh.

Kharote finished with 3-28 while leg-spinner Rashid Khan took 2-32 and mystery spinner AM Ghazanfar grabbed 2-35.

The series finale is scheduled for Monday at the same venue.

MILESTONE FOR SHARJAH STADIUM

Meanwhile, Sharjah Cricket Stadium celebrated a historic milestone, reaching an unprecedented 300 international cricket matches, marking it as the most-played international cricket venue globally. The iconic achievement was reached during the first One Day International (ODI) between Afghanistan and Bangladesh, with the stadium boasting a total of 253 ODIs, 38 T20 Internationals, and 9 Test matches.

A celebratory event was held to honor this remarkable accomplishment, with a cake-cutting ceremony attended by legendary cricket figures and esteemed dignitaries. Distinguished guests included Javagal Srinath, the former Indian cricketer who made his international debut at Sharjah Cricket Stadium; Ramiz Raja, former Pakistan captain with 37 international matches played at this venue; and Athar Ali Khan, former Bangladesh cricketer. The event was graced by Naseeb Khan, CEO of the Afghanistan Cricket Board; Khalaf Bukhatir, CEO of Sharjah Cricket; Mazhar Khan, General Manager of Sharjah Cricket; and members of the Sharjah Cricket Management team.

Khalaf Bukhatir, CEO of Sharjah Cricket, expressed pride in the venue’s legacy: “Sharjah Cricket Stadium has been a home to the world’s most memorable cricket moments, drawing fans and players from around the globe.

“Reaching 300 international matches is a testament to the enduring spirit of this venue and the fans who fill it with energy and passion.”

Since its inception, Sharjah Cricket Stadium has served as an iconic venue in cricketing history, hosting historic matches and becoming a symbol of excellence in international cricket.

This latest achievement further solidifies Sharjah’s position as a beloved and enduring destination for cricket fans worldwide.

The Sharjah Cricket Stadium management extends gratitude to players, fans, and cricket boards for their continued support in making this landmark possible.

As the stadium looks forward to hosting more unforgettable matches, this milestone marks a proud chapter in its storied history.

Agencies