Afghanistan’s relentless pursuit of victory culminated in a thrilling five-wicket triumph over Bangladesh in the third and decisive ODI in Sharjah, securing a 2-1 series win. Opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz’s scintillating century and Azmatullah Omarzai’s all-around brilliance proved pivotal in the Afghans’ triumph.
Gurbaz, known for his explosive batting, unleashed a masterful 120-ball 101, adorned with seven towering sixes and five boundaries. His innings laid the foundation for Afghanistan’s successful chase of 245. Omarzai, who had earlier impressed with a four-wicket haul, complemented Gurbaz’s heroics with a solid 77-ball 70.
Bangladesh, batting first, had posted a competitive 244 for 8, thanks to Mohammad Mahmudullah’s valiant 98 and Mehidy Hasan Miraz’s steady 66. However, Afghanistan’s bowlers, led by Omarzai, kept the Bangladeshi batsmen in check, restricting them to a manageable total.
The Afghan chase got off to a shaky start, with Bangladesh pacers Mustafizur Rahman and Nahid Rana reducing them to 84 for 3. But Gurbaz and Omarzai steadied the ship with a crucial 100-run partnership for the fourth wicket.
Gurbaz’s dismissal in the 39th over left Afghanistan needing 61 runs to win. Omarzai, however, continued his onslaught, forging a vital 58-run partnership with Mohammad Nabi (34 off 27 balls). Omarzai sealed the victory in style, hitting the winning six.
Afghanistan’s skipper, Hashmatullah Shahidi, expressed his delight at the team’s performance, particularly the contributions of Gurbaz and Omarzai. Miraz, on the other hand, acknowledged Afghanistan’s dominance in the series.
