Bangladesh beat Afghanistan by 68 runs, set up decisive third ODI in Sharjah

A disciplined all-rounder performance handed Bangladesh a clinical 68-run win over Afghanistan in the 2nd ODI in Sharjah on Saturday, Bangladesh’s maiden win at the venue. Bangladesh won the toss, and elected to bat first, and posted a challenging total of 252 for seven, anchored by a composed 76 from captain Najmul Hossain Shanto.

Shanto, who faced 119 balls and struck six boundaries and a six, held the innings together after early wickets as he guided Bangladesh to a solid platform. He ended up in the 41st over, caught by Mohammad Nabi off Nangeyalia Kharote at long-off while attempting to accelerate briefly stalled Bangladesh’s progress.

Soumya Sarkar contributed a steady 35 from 49 balls, building momentum in the early phase. Middle-order batter Jaker Ali provided the late impetus with a brisk 37 not out off 27 deliveries, striking a six and a four to help Bangladesh push beyond the 250-run mark. Jaker made his ODI debut in this match.

Afghanistan left-arm spinner Nangeyalia Kharote claimed 3 for 28, effectively disrupting Bangladesh’s lower-middle order. Chasing a target of 253, Afghanistan faced immediate setbacks, losing Rahmanullah Gurbaz to Taskin Ahmed in the fourth over.

Opener Sediqullah Atal showed promise with 39, but he was caught by Mehidy Hasan Miraz off Nasum Ahmed in the 16th over, leaving Afghanistan on 70 for two.

Afghanistan’s hopes rested on Rahmat Shah, who scored 52 from 76 balls, including five boundaries. Shah, however, was run out in the 30th over following a mix-up with Gulbadin Naib, a crucial blow that derailed Afghanistan’s chase just as they attempted to rebuild.

Left-arm spinner Nasum Ahmed emerged as the standout, taking 3 for 28 in his 8.3 overs, consistently troubling Afghanistan’s batters with his variations.

Mehidy Hasan Miraz provided vital support with 2 for 37, claiming the wickets of Mohammad Nabi and Nangeyalia Kharote, while Mustafizur Rahman and Shoriful Islam contributed key breakthroughs. Ultimately, Afghanistan’s innings concluded at 184 in 43.3 overs, falling well short of the target.

The third and final ODI of the series will take place on (November 11) at the same venue. The winner of the match will take the series series.