Abu Dhabi, Sep 16: Bangladesh kept their Asia Cup campaign on track with a narrow eight-run victory over Afghanistan in a tense group league encounter here on Tuesday. The win ensured the Tigers remained in contention for a place in the Super Four stage.
Batting first on a good surface, Bangladesh rode on a flying start provided by opener Tanzid Hasan Tamim. The left-hander blazed away to a 31-ball 52, striking with authority on both sides of the wicket. Partner Saif Hassan added 30 from 28 deliveries, and together the duo stitched a brisk 63-run opening stand that threatened to take the game away from Afghanistan.However, the momentum shifted once the Afghan spinners came into play. Captain Rashid Khan (2/26) and young wrist-spinner Noor Ahmad (2/23) bowled with control and accuracy, halting Bangladesh’s charge and keeping the scoring rate in check during the middle overs. From a position of strength, Bangladesh were eventually restricted to 154 for five in their allotted 20 overs.Chasing 155 for victory, Afghanistan looked in the hunt for much of the innings. Opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz top-scored with a steady 35 off 31 balls, while Azmatullah Omarzai injected life into the chase with a quickfire 30 from just 16 balls. Yet, Bangladesh’s bowlers rose to the occasion when it mattered most.
The result gave Bangladesh a much-needed boost after an inconsistent run, while Afghanistan were left to reflect on missed opportunities. (PTI)
