SYLHET: Bangladesh emerged victorious in a thrilling encounter against Afghanistan in the first T20 international held in Sylhet on Friday, despite Karim Janat’s impressive hat-trick in the final over. The hosts clinched a nail-biting two-wicket win with just one ball remaining.
Bangladesh appeared to be cruising towards victory during their chase of Afghanistan’s total of 154-7, thanks to a solid partnership of 73 runs for the fifth wicket between Towhid Hridoy and Shamim Hossain. However, the game took a dramatic turn at the Sylhet International Stadium.
Rashid Khan broke the crucial partnership by dismissing Shamim for 33 runs, but Bangladesh remained in a favorable position, needing just six runs from the final over. However, Janat’s exceptional bowling skills turned the tide as he dismissed Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taskin Ahmed, and Nasum Ahmed consecutively with the second, third, and fourth balls of the over, leaving the hosts still two runs away from victory.
With tension rising, number 10 batsman Shoriful Islam stepped up and delivered a powerful shot that raced to the boundary, securing a dramatic win for Bangladesh. Hridoy remained unbeaten on 47 at the non-striker’s end while Janat finished with remarkable figures of 3-15.
Bangladesh Captain Praises Tail-Enders
Bangladesh captain Shakib Al Hasan expressed his belief in the team’s tail-enders, praising Shoriful’s crucial contribution. On the other hand, Afghanistan captain Rashid lamented his team’s inability to defend their total and acknowledged the impact a single innings can have in the unpredictable T20 format.
Earlier, Afghanistan struggled at the start of their innings, losing four early wickets for 52 runs. However, Mohammad Nabi’s unbeaten 54 off 40 balls propelled them to a competitive score. Najibullah Zadran and Azmatullah Omarzai provided valuable support, contributing 23 and 33 runs respectively.
The second match of the series between Bangladesh and Afghanistan will take place at the same venue on Sunday, promising another thrilling contest between the two sides.
