The Kabul Tribune (KT) — Afghanistan will look to seal their third consecutive one-day international (ODI) series victory over Bangladesh when the two sides meet Saturday in the second match of their three-game series.
Afghanistan, who won the last two bilateral ODI series
against Bangladesh in 2023 and 2024, are riding high after a five-wicket win on
Wednesday — a much-needed boost following five consecutive international
defeats.
All-rounder Azmatullah Omarzai led the charge with three
wickets and a crucial 40 runs in the chase, while star leg-spinner Rashid Khan
claimed 3 for 38, surpassing 200 ODI wickets.
Afghanistan’s success also showcased the team’s growing
depth. Rahmanullah Gurbaz anchored the innings with a composed knock, while
Rahmat Shah and captain Hashmatullah Shahidi provided stability in the middle
order. Left-arm spinner Nangeyalia Kharote impressed as well, conceding just 31
runs in his 10 overs and taking the wicket of Saif Hassan.
Bangladesh, meanwhile, continue to struggle for form in the
format, having won only two ODIs in the past year. Despite a promising start
and a 101-run fourth-wicket stand in the first match, Bangladesh’s middle and
lower order faltered against Rashid’s spin. Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Jaker Ali and
Nurul Hasan were all dismissed lbw by the Afghan leg-spinner.
Head coach Phil Simmons will be looking for answers as
Bangladesh aim to adapt better to Abu Dhabi’s spin-friendly conditions.
Afghanistan’s decision to field four spinners paid off, while Bangladesh’s
omission of leg-spinner Rishad Hossain raised questions about their team
balance.
Bangladesh swept the T20 leg of the tour 3-0, but will need
that same energy to avoid another series loss when they face Afghanistan on
Saturday.
