In an exhilarating contest at Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Bangladesh posted a competitive total of 244 runs for 8 wickets, guided by an impressive 98 runs from seasoned batter Mahmudullah. This marked the third and final ODI of the series against Afghanistan, with both teams vying for series supremacy after the series stood at 1-1.
Bangladesh’s Innings: A Rollercoaster of Emotion
Opting to bat first, Bangladesh found itself in a promising position initially, as openers Soumya Sarkar and Tanzid Hasan built a solid 53-run partnership. Soumya looked in good touch, scoring a brisk 24 runs off just 23 balls, before falling prey to Azmatullah Omarzai, who bowled him via a chop onto the stumps in the ninth over.
Tanzid Hasan’s departure came soon after as he was caught for 19 runs off the bowling of Mohammad Nabi, followed by Zakir Hasan’s unfortunate run-out due to a direct hit from Nangeyalia Kharote—a mix-up that brought Bangladesh to a precarious 58 for 3 within 11 overs.
Under mounting pressure, the in-form Mehidy Hasan Miraz stepped in alongside Mahmudullah, stabilizing the innings with a methodical 145-run partnership that spanned 188 balls. Miraz played a patient knock of 66 runs from 119 balls, anchoring the innings and providing the much-needed solidity after the shaky start. He fell in the 46th over after a fine catch by Gulbadin Naib off another slower delivery from Omarzai.
Mahmudullah’s Aggressive Late Surge
With Mehidy’s wicket, Mahmudullah seized the opportunity to shift gears in the death overs, showcasing his experience and skill by accelerating the scoring rate. He hammered seven boundaries and three sixes, ultimately achieving a commendable 98 runs from 98 balls. However, in a heart-breaking twist, he fell just short of a well-deserved century, running out while attempting a risky second run on the final ball of the innings.
On the bowling front, Omarzai emerged as a key figure for Afghanistan, taking 4 wickets for 37 runs in a tightly controlled seven-over spell, hampering Bangladesh’s late onslaught. Afghanistan’s spin duo of Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi proved disciplined as well; Nabi delivered an economical 10-over spell, conceding only 37 runs while taking one wicket, maintaining constant pressure throughout the middle overs.
Afghanistan’s Response: Series Decider on the Horizon
With Bangladesh concluding their innings at 244 for 8, the stage is now set for a thrilling chase from Afghanistan, who are eager to clinch the series. Both teams will be looking to deliver exceptional performances with the series outcome poised delicately at 1-1. Afghanistan comes into this match with high morale, having secured an impressive 91-run victory previously, while Bangladesh has shown resilience by bouncing back with a convincing 68-run win in the second ODI.
When and Where: Key Match Details
The much-anticipated AFG vs BAN 3rd ODI 2024 will take place at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium. Cricket fans can gear up for the intensity of this encounter, scheduled to begin at 03:30 PM local time. As the series reaches its climactic conclusion, both teams know the importance of this match—Afghanistan aiming to assert their dominance in the subcontinent, and Bangladesh seeking to secure a series win.
How to Watch: Broadcast and Streaming Options
For fans eager to catch the live action, EUROSPORT holds the broadcast rights for this riveting series. Viewers can tune into the channel to watch the live telecast. Additionally, those looking to stream the match can find it on the FanCode app, with a premium pass required to access the live streaming of the AFG vs BAN ODI series.
As the cricketing rivalry intensifies, all eyes will be on the Sharjah pitch, where the outcome of this decisive match will determine the ultimate victor of the series. Fans from both sides are eagerly awaiting to see whether Afghanistan can complete a series triumph or Bangladesh can claim victory and assert their own dominance.
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