Bangladesh pulled off a thrilling win against Afghanistan in the 9th match of the Men’s T20 Asia Cup 2025 at the Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi. In a high-pressure contest under the lights, Bangladesh defended 154 to secure an 8-run victory and strengthen their position in Group B.
Tanzid Sets the Tone for Bangladesh
After winning the toss and opting to bat first, Bangladesh got off to a steady start through Saif Hassan (30 off 28). However, it was young opener Tanzid Hasan who provided the real spark. His blistering 52 off 31 balls, featuring four boundaries and three sixes, gave Bangladesh a solid platform. Towhid Hridoy’s 26 off 20 added valuable runs in the middle overs, while a late cameo from Nurul Hasan (12* off 6) helped push the total to 154/5 from 20 overs.
Afghanistan’s bowling attack was led by spinner Noor Ahmad (4-0-23-2) and captain Rashid Khan (4-0-26-2), both of whom kept things tight and struck key blows at crucial moments.
Afghanistan Fight Hard but Fall Short
Chasing 155 for victory, Afghanistan’s innings got off to a rocky start, losing Sediqullah Atal off the first ball. Rahmanullah Gurbaz tried to stabilize the innings with a well-compiled 35 off 31 balls, but wickets at regular intervals kept Afghanistan on the back foot. All-rounder Azmatullah Omarzai’s fiery 30 off just 16 balls, combined with Rashid Khan’s 20 off 11, brought Afghanistan back into the contest, but the target proved just out of reach as they were bowled out for 146.
Nasum Ahmed Stars with the Ball
Bangladesh’s bowlers showed great discipline in the second innings. Left-arm spinner Nasum Ahmed delivered a match-winning spell of 4-1-11-2, including a maiden over, choking Afghanistan’s scoring in the powerplay. Mustafizur Rahman (3/28) and Rishad Hossain (2/18) also played key roles in sealing the victory.
Key Stats
- Top Scorer (Bangladesh): Tanzid Hasan – 52 (31)
- Top Scorer (Afghanistan): Rahmanullah Gurbaz – 35 (31)
- Best Bowler (Bangladesh): Nasum Ahmed – 4-1-11-2
- Best Bowler (Afghanistan): Noor Ahmad – 4-0-23-2
Player of the Match
Nasum Ahmed was named Player of the Match for his brilliant spell of left-arm spin, which turned the game in Bangladesh’s favor.
What This Means for the Tournament
This win gives Bangladesh two crucial points in Group B and boosts their net run rate ahead of the knockout stages. Afghanistan, despite the loss, remain in contention but will need to win their upcoming fixtures convincingly to keep their hopes alive.
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