Dhaka: Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto took responsibility for a frustrating defeat to Afghanistan in the first of the three-match ODI series, stating that his dismissal led to a dramatic collapse, resulting in a 92-run loss for his team. After wrapping up Afghanistan’s innings for 235, Bangladesh appeared to be on track for an easy victory with Shanto leading the way.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Shanto threw away his wicket on 47 by attempting an unnecessary paddle sweep against Mohammad Nabi. His dismissal triggered a collapse, with Bangladesh losing their last seven wickets for just 11 runs, eventually being bowled out for 143 in 34.3 overs. “I think my wicket made the difference. I was the set batter and needed to bat longer,” Shanto said post-match. “We didn’t need to attack more. We should have been restrained.”
Eighteen-year-old offspinner Mohammad Ghazanfar was instrumental in Bangladesh’s downfall, taking 6-26 as the Bangladesh batsmen struggled to read his spin. Shanto noted
Afghanistan’s strength in mystery spin and admitted their approach was overly aggressive at times.
Bangladesh’s bowling performance also left much to be desired. Despite reducing Afghanistan to 71-5, they failed to maintain pressure, allowing the visitors to recover and post a total of 235. Mohammad Nabi scored an impressive 84 off 79 balls, while Afghanistan’s captain Hashmatullah Shahidi contributed 52.
“We started well in the first 15-20 overs. But we didn’t execute our plans in the middle overs. Nabi batted brilliantly,” Shanto remarked. “The wicket had enough help for the bowlers. I think Shahidi and Nabi batted really well.”
Despite the setback, Shanto expressed determination to regroup and perform better in the second match, scheduled for Saturday. “The preparation was brilliant but today was not our day and hopefully we can turn it around,” he concluded.