Afghanistan booked their place in the tri-series final with another convincing victory in 3rd ODI, defeating Bangladesh after chasing down a target of 161 runs. Their bowlers set up the win with an impressive display, while Rahmat Shah guided the chase with an unbeaten half-century.
Afghanistan lost two early wickets during the chase. However, Ibrahim Zadran remained composed, and Rahmat Shah soon took charge of the innings.
Bangladesh needed to restrict Afghanistan to 119 runs or fewer to stay in contention for the final. Therefore, their bowlers came out with plenty of determination. Taskin Ahmed led the early charge and put the Afghan batters under pressure.
Nevertheless, Shah handled the situation calmly. He first built a valuable partnership with Zadran before joining forces with former captain Hashmatullah Shahidi. Both stands helped Afghanistan regain control and move closer to victory.
Shah finished unbeaten on 67, ensuring a comfortable finish for his side. Moreover, the result extended Afghanistan’s winning streak to six matches since Shah took over as ODI captain.
Earlier, Afghanistan made an excellent start with the ball after Bangladesh chose to bat first in the 3rd ODI of tri-series.
Yamin Ahmadzai delivered an early double blow by claiming two wickets in consecutive deliveries. Azmatullah Omarzai then struck twice in quick succession, leaving Bangladesh struggling to build momentum.
Saif Hassan and Parvez Hossain Emon attempted to steady the innings. Emon reached his half-century, giving Bangladesh some hope of posting a competitive total.
However, Saif’s poor shot selection halted their progress and allowed Afghanistan to regain control. Rashid Khan then ripped through the lower order, claiming the final four wickets in a short spell.
As a result, Bangladesh were bowled out for just 160 runs, leaving Afghanistan with a manageable target of 161 in the 3rd ODI of tri-series.
Afghanistan’s latest triumph underlined their dominance throughout the tri-series. They finished the group stage unbeaten and secured their place in the final without facing a serious challenge.
Meanwhile, Bangladesh’s campaign came to an end following consecutive heavy defeats against Zimbabwe and Afghanistan. Their inability to recover from those setbacks proved costly.
Consequently, Afghanistan and Zimbabwe will now meet in the final, with both sides earning the opportunity to compete for the tri-series title.
