Afghanistan’s Dominant Victory Over Bangladesh in 2nd ODI

Afghanistan achieved a dominant victory by defeating Bangladesh by a remarkable 142 runs in the second ODI of their three-match series at Chattogram’s Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium. With this impressive win, Afghanistan secured their maiden ODI series victory against Bangladesh, with one match remaining.

Record Opening Partnership Sets the Stage for Afghanistan’s Massive Total

Opting to bat first, Afghanistan began their innings with a solid foundation, establishing an unbroken opening partnership of 67 runs in the initial ten overs. Rahmanullah Gurbaz displayed exceptional form, confidently accumulating boundaries, while his partner, Ibrahim Zadran, played a crucial supporting role.

The pair forged an extraordinary 256-run partnership for the first wicket, setting a new record for Afghanistan in the 50-over format. Gurbaz fell agonizingly short of his maiden ODI 150, departing for a splendid 145.

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Although Afghanistan’s subsequent batsmen aimed to continue the onslaught, they faltered and lost wickets rapidly, going from 256 for no loss to 286 for four within eight overs. Ibrahim also departed after reaching his fourth ODI century.

Despite the setback, Afghanistan seemed poised to surpass the 350-run mark at one stage. However, Bangladesh’s bowlers staged an impressive comeback, restricting Afghanistan to 331 runs in their allotted 50 overs. Shakib Al Hasan, once again, stood out as the top performer among the home team’s bowlers, claiming two wickets while conceding only 50 runs in his ten overs.

Bangladesh Struggle in Chase of Daunting Target

Facing the daunting task of chasing 332 runs, Bangladesh encountered a poor start, losing three wickets and managing just 28 runs during the first powerplay. Fazalhaq Farooqi proved instrumental, conceding a mere six runs and taking two wickets in his initial five overs.

In partnership with Towhid Hridoy, Shakib Al Hasan attempted to rebuild the innings but faltered as Rashid Khan claimed two quick wickets following the powerplay, further destabilizing the hosts. However, Mushfiqur Rahim valiantly fought until the end, emerging as the sole Bangladeshi batsman to put up resistance in BAN vs AFG 2nd ODI.

Ultimately, Bangladesh fell well short, getting bowled out for 189 in the 44th over, resulting in a comprehensive 142-run victory for Afghanistan. Fazalhaq Farooqi maintained his excellent form, taking three wickets, including the prized scalp of Rahim. Mujeeb Ur Rahman also contributed significantly, claiming three wickets for 40 runs in his ten overs.