LAHORE: In an electrifying Asia Cup 2023 encounter at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, the Bangladesh cricket team has set a formidable target of 335 runs for Afghanistan.
This substantial total was primarily propelled by two splendid centuries from the openers, Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Najmul Hossain Shanto. Miraz displayed a remarkable performance, scoring 112 runs off 119 balls, including seven boundaries and three sixes. Meanwhile, Najmul notched up an impressive 104 runs off 105 balls, embellishing his innings with nine boundaries and two sixes.
Bangladesh faced early challenges, losing two wickets with just 63 runs on the board. However, the partnership between Miraz and Shanto, worth 194 runs, catapulted their team into a commanding position.
Miraz, unfortunately, had to retire hurt after his splendid century, while Shanto was run out for his dynamic 104. Captain Shakib Al Hasan also contributed significantly, playing a cameo innings of 32 runs off 18 balls.
For Bangladesh, this match was a “do or die” situation following their previous defeat to co-host Sri Lanka by five wickets. Consequently, securing a victory in this crucial encounter against Afghanistan became imperative for their progression in the tournament.
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, Bangladesh’s performance aimed to secure a much-needed win in the Asia Cup. They faced a daunting challenge against Afghanistan, who were entering their first match of the tournament. A victory for Afghanistan in this game would secure their place in the next stage before facing the group leaders, Sri Lanka.
However, a defeat for Afghanistan would heighten the stakes for their upcoming clash against Sri Lanka, making it a must-win situation. As such, Hashmatullah Shahidi’s side approached this match against Bangladesh with a strong determination to secure their spot in the tournament’s next stage.
Bangladesh Playing XI
Mohammad Naim, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Shakib Al Hasan (c), Towhid Hridoy, Shamim Hossain, Mushfiqur Rahim (w), Afif Hossain, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful Islam, Hasan Mahmud.
Afghanistan Playing XI
Rahmanullah Gurbaz (w), Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Najibullah Zadran, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Karim Janat, Rashid Khan, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Mujeeb Ur Rahman.
