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Bangladesh delivered a dominant performance against Afghanistan in a crucial match to keep their tournament hopes alive. Mehidy Hasan scored 112 runs, while Najmul Hossain Shanto contributed 104 runs, guiding Bangladesh to an 89-run victory over Afghanistan at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium in Pakistan.
Winning the toss, Bangladesh’s captain, Shakib al Hasan, chose to bat first on a favourable batting pitch. The team had a solid start with Mohammed Naim and Mehidy Hasan forming a 60-run partnership. However, Mujeeb Ur Rahman dismissed Mohammed Naim, and Gulbadin quickly removed Towhid Hridoy as he was dismissed without troubling the scoreboard.
Later, Mehidy Hasan found a solid partner in the in-form Najmul Hossain Shanto. Both batters mercilessly punished the Afghan bowlers, creating a one-sided match. Their incredible partnership of 215 runs marked the highest ever in Asia Cup history for Bangladesh. Unfortunately, Shanto was run out, ending their partnership. Mehidy Hasan suffered an injury and was retired hurt. Mushfiqur Rahim (25 runs), Shakib (32 runs), and Hossain (11 runs) helped Bangladesh finish strong, setting a target of 335 runs.
In their chase of the mammoth 335-run target, Afghanistan lost an early wicket with Gurbaz’s dismissal. Ibrahim Zadran and Rahmat Shah tried to stabilise the innings but lost Rahmat Shah with 33 runs, leaving Afghanistan at 79/2. Zadran and Afghan Skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi reached fifty, but after their dismissals, Afghanistan kept losing wickets at regular intervals, ultimately losing by 89 runs.
Bangladesh’s bowler, Taskin Ahmed, bowled impressively, taking four crucial wickets. Shoriful Islam displayed his pace and was the most economical bowler, claiming three wickets, which proved pivotal.
Mehidy Hasan Miraz received the Player of the Match award for his outstanding all-round performance with both bat and ball.
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