Afghanistan defeated Bangladesh by five wickets in the third ODI, taking the series 2-1. Rahmanullah Gurbaz scored 101 runs, while Azmatullah Omarzai contributed with both bat and ball, taking four wickets and scoring 70 runs. This victory marks Afghanistan’s third consecutive series win this year, highlighting their growing prominence in international cricket.
On Monday, Afghanistan secured a five-wicket victory against Bangladesh in the third One Day International (ODI), thereby clinching the series 2-1. Key contributions came from Rahmanullah Gurbaz, who scored an impressive 101 runs off 120 balls, and Azmatullah Omarzai, who not only took four crucial wickets but also contributed 70 runs off 77 balls. Chasing a modest target of 245, Afghanistan successfully completed the run chase in 48.2 overs, showcasing a strong batting performance in Sharjah. Bangladesh’s innings was bolstered by Mohammad Mahmudullah, who narrowly missed a century, scoring 98 runs before being run out on the final ball. Mehidy Hasan Miraz also played a vital role with a score of 66. Afghanistan’s bowling attack faced early setbacks, losing three wickets for just 84 runs, before Gurbaz and Omarzai forged a partnership that turned the match in Afghanistan’s favor. Notably, this victory continues Afghanistan’s upward trajectory, marking their third consecutive series win this year, following victories over Ireland and South Africa. Afghanistan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi expressed pride in his team’s performance, especially after being concerned about batting second in Sharjah. He commended his players for their resilience and successful chase. Meanwhile, Mehidy Hasan Miraz acknowledged Afghanistan’s superior performance, emphasizing their ability to maintain pressure, particularly through the efforts of Gurbaz and Omarzai. Earlier, Bangladesh’s innings stabilized thanks to a substantial fifth-wicket partnership between Mahmudullah and Miraz, which proved pivotal despite the initial loss of four wickets within a short span. As a result, Omarzai’s impressive bowling performance, recording a best of 4-37, significantly contributed to Afghanistan’s series victory.
This report outlines a significant cricketing event featuring Afghanistan’s victory over Bangladesh in the third ODI of a series hosted in Sharjah. The match highlights pivotal performances, including exceptional batting and bowling displays by Afghan players, thereby illustrating Afghanistan’s growing prowess in international cricket. Following a challenging series with fluctuating fortunes, this victory not only affirms Afghanistan’s competitive edge but also marks a remarkable achievement within the context of their recent series wins against prominent teams.
In conclusion, Afghanistan’s triumph over Bangladesh in the third ODI exemplifies their improving cricketing stature, paving the way for a successful year with multiple series victories. The match underscored critical individual performances from Gurbaz and Omarzai, instrumental in both batting and bowling domains. The emerging success of Afghanistan in ODI tournaments signifies a leap forward for their cricket team on the international stage, promising a hopeful future for the sport in the nation.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
