Afghanistan Beat Bangladesh In Rain-Hit First ODI

Afghanistan Beat Bangladesh In Rain-Hit First ODI

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Afghanistan displayed a commendable performance as they emerged victorious over Bangladesh by 17 runs on the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method in a rain-interrupted first one-day international (ODI) held in Chittagong on Wednesday. The rain had a significant impact on the match, ultimately preventing any further play at the Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium. At the time the rain intervened, Afghanistan had reached a score of 83-2 in 21.4 overs, chasing a revised target of 164 runs in 43 overs.

The foundation for Afghanistan’s triumph was set by left-arm pacer Fazalhaq Farooqi, who delivered a stellar bowling performance with figures of 3-24. His exceptional spell restricted Bangladesh to a modest total of 169-9. Capitalizing on the overcast conditions, the Afghan bowlers proved to be a formidable force. The opening partnership between Ibrahim Zadran and Rahmanullah Gurbaz proved vital in thwarting Bangladesh’s early attempts at breakthroughs, as the duo accumulated 54 runs.

Bangladesh found a glimmer of hope when Shakib Al Hasan dismissed Gurbaz for 22, and Taskin Ahmed claimed the wicket of Rahmat Shah for eight, momentarily slowing Afghanistan’s progress. The rain-induced interruptions resulted in a revised target of 111 runs in 29 overs for Afghanistan. However, the match was ultimately called off due to another spell of rain. At that stage, Afghanistan required 67 runs to win as per the DLS method, securing their victory.

Contributing to Afghanistan’s success, leg-spinner Rashid Khan and off-spinner Mujeeb Ur Rahman showcased their skills by claiming 2-21 and 2-23 respectively. Their stellar bowling performances, in addition to Farooqi’s exploits, effectively kept Bangladesh’s scoring rate in check after the rain breaks disrupted their innings twice.

For Bangladesh, rookie batsman Towhid Hridoy displayed resilience and determination as he top-scored with a valiant knock of 51 runs. However, the hosts struggled to maintain momentum throughout their innings after Afghanistan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi elected to field first upon winning the toss. At the time of the first rain interruption, Bangladesh had faltered to a score of 84-3 in 15.1 overs, losing their top-order batsmen Tamim Iqbal (13), Liton Das (26), and Najmul Hossain (12).

Upon the resumption of play, Azmatullah Omarzai claimed the crucial wicket of Shakib for 15 runs. Shortly after, Rashid displayed his bowling prowess by dismissing Mushfiqur Rahim for one, as the ball squeezed through his legs, and later removing Afif Hossain for four, caught leg-before-wicket. Farooqi joined the party and trapped Mehidy Hasan Miraz leg-before for five runs. Another rain delay ensued, with Bangladesh struggling at 144-7 off 34.3 overs.

When play resumed, Towhid demonstrated his mettle once again, reaching his third half-century in just seven ODIs. Unfortunately, his innings came to an end when Farooqi claimed his wicket in the same over. With this victory, Afghanistan has the opportunity to secure an unassailable lead in the three-match series against Bangladesh, with the second ODI scheduled to be held at the same venue on Saturday.

Having previously faced defeat in their last two ODI series against Bangladesh, Afghanistan’s triumph in this rain-affected match serves as a significant morale booster for the team. They have showcased their ability to overcome challenging conditions and remain resilient in the face of adversity. As the series progresses, fans and cricket enthusiasts eagerly anticipate further exhilarating encounters between these two formidable teams.

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