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In the second ODI at Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Bangladesh levelled the three-match series with a 68-run victory over Afghanistan.
Najmul Hossain Shanto guides Bangladesh to 252/7
Winning the toss and opting to bat, Bangladesh posted a competitive total of 252/7 in their 50 overs, with Najmul Hossain Shanto’s composed 76 off 119 balls as the standout performance.
Bangladesh’s innings saw steady partnerships, beginning with Tanzid Hasan’s quick 22 off 17 balls, supported by Soumya Sarkar’s 35 off 49. After Hasan’s dismissal, Shanto anchored the innings, crafting his knock with six fours and one six, providing Bangladesh a stable foundation despite losing wickets at regular intervals. Contributions from Jaker Ali Anik, who scored a brisk 37 not out off 27 balls, and Nasum Ahmed’s 25 off 24 balls boosted the total, allowing Bangladesh to cross the 250-run mark. Afghanistan’s bowling attack was led by Nangeyalia Kharote, who claimed three wickets for 28 runs in his eight overs. Rashid Khan also made an impact with 2/32 in his 10-over spell, while Allah Ghazanfar took 2/35.
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Afghanistan falters in the run chase
In response, Afghanistan struggled to build momentum, with early dismissals setting them back. Rahmanullah Gurbaz was dismissed cheaply for just 2 runs, and despite Sediqullah Atal’s solid 39 off 51 balls and Rahmat Shah’s composed 52 off 76, they lost wickets consistently. Skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi added 17 runs off 40 balls, but the lack of substantial partnerships hurt their chase. Gulbadin Naib attempted a counterattack with a quick 26 off 25 balls, including four fours and a six, but it was insufficient to close the gap.
Bangladesh’s bowlers were disciplined, with Nasum Ahmed being the standout, taking 3/28 in 8.3 overs. Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Mustafizur Rahman each contributed with two wickets, while Taskin Ahmed and Shoriful Islam took a wicket apiece, ensuring Afghanistan were bowled out for 184 in 43.3 overs.
Najmul Hossain Shanto was named Player of the Match for his crucial knock that anchored Bangladesh’s score. With this victory, Bangladesh levelled the series 1-1, setting up an exciting decider. The third and final ODI will take place on Monday, November 11, at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, where both teams will vie for the series win.
