Sharjah: Bangladesh bowlers put up yet another stellar bowling show, forcing Afghanistan to manage a modest 147-5 in the second T20 International at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium in the UAE today. The Tigers, leading the three-match series 1-0, following a four-wicket victory in the first match, now require just 148 runs to seal the series by making the third game a dead-rubber.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, left-arm spinner Nasum Ahmed was instrumental in wrecking the Afghanistan batting lineup as he claimed 2-25 in four overs. Leg-spinner Rishad Hossain also took two wickets but was a bit expensive, giving away 45 runs in four overs. Pacer Shoriful Islam, one of the two changes for Bangladesh in this match, played his part well by stifling the Afghan innings, ending with 1-13 in four overs.
Mohammad Saifuddin, although unable to take any wickets, maintained tight control with disciplined line and length. Mustafizur Rahman was slightly off color today as the pacer went wicketless and conceded 40 runs in his four overs. Most of the Afghan batters got off to a start, but the Bangladesh bowlers’ tight bowling denied them from making any significant impact.
Opener Ibrahim Zadran was the top scorer with 38 runs but took 37 balls for it. Rahmanullah Gurbaz was the other notable scorer with 30. Veteran Mohammad Nabi hit a quickfire 12-ball 20 not out toward the end to help the side edge closer to the 150-run mark, which still looked insufficient to level the series.