Sharjah: Bangladesh wrapped up Afghanistan for 235 in the first ODI of the three-match series at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium. Afghanistan's innings was marked by half-centuries from Mohammad Nabi and skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi, who helped the team recover from a precarious position. According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Afghanistan found themselves in trouble early, with the score at 71-5 by the 20th over. Mohammad Nabi played a crucial innings, hitting 84 off 79 balls, including fours and three sixes. Shahidi complemented Nabi's aggressive play with a steady 52 off 92 balls, featuring just two boundaries. Together, they put on a 104-run partnership for the sixth wicket, stabilizing the innings after the early collapse. Bangladesh's fast bowlers, Taskin Ahmed and Mustafizur Rahman, were instrumental in dismantling the Afghan batting lineup, taking four wickets each. Taskin struck early, dismissing Rahmanullah Gurbaz for 5, while Mustafizur claimed the wicket of Rahamat Shah for 2. Mustafizur continued to apply pressure with a double strike, removing Sediqullah Atal for 21 and Azmatullah Omarzai without scoring. Shahidi and Gulbadin Naib attempted a recovery, but Taskin ended their 46-run partnership by dismissing Naib for 22. As Bangladesh looked to capitalize on their advantage, Nabi launched a counterattack, capitalizing on several fielding errors by the Bangladesh team. Mahmudullah Riyad's lapses in the field allowed Nabi to survive twice. Despite a valiant effort, Mustafizur broke the crucial partnership by dismissing Shahidi shortly after his half-century. Nabi continued to fight, reaching his 17th ODI fifty, but his hopes for a century were dashed when Taskin had him caught by Tanzid Hasan Tamim. Nangeyalia Khatore's unbeaten 27 provided a late boost to Afghanistan's total, giving them a fighting chance in the match. However, the disciplined bowling performance by Bangladesh's pacers ensured they remained in control.
