Bangladesh defeated Afghanistan by six wickets to kick off their World Cup campaign in Dharamsala.
Afghanistan batted first on a favourable surface but lost the opportunity, being bowled out for 156 in 37.2 overs in a cloud of wayward strokes.
In response, the Tigers were 27-2, but a 97-run stand between Mehidy Hasan and Najmul Hossain Shanto helped them accomplish their goal with 15.2 overs to spare.
On Tuesday (06:00 BST), Bangladesh will play England at the same site.
Afghanistan, who have now lost 13 consecutive World Cup games dating back to 2015, will face hosts India on Wednesday in Delhi. Additionally, you can also read about- ICC World Cup 2023 Afghanistan Team Analysis and Predictions.
Shakib Gets the Tigers Started
This was a fascinating matchup between two of the tournament’s lower-ranked teams, each with dreams of reaching the semi-finals.
Bangladesh easily defeated their opponents at the gorgeous Dharamsala stadium, surrounded by the Himalayan mountains.
Afghanistan not only squandered a promising start with the bat, but they also lost opportunities in the field, leaving much for their coach, former England batsman Jonathan Trott, to work on.
Afghanistan would go on to lose their last eight wickets for 44 runs after being 47-0 and 83-1. Bangladesh captain Shakib Al Hasan, 36, who was playing in his fifth World Cup, was the catalyst for their demise.
The left-arm spinner bowled an excellent line for his 3-30, which was aided by Mehidy’s fine all-round effort, which featured 3-25 with his off-breaks.
Mustafizur Rahman, a left-arm seamer, grabbed the important wicket of Rahmanullah Gurbaz, who scored 47 before becoming one of a long list of Afghan hitters who wasted their wicket.
Afghanistan appeared to have a chance when Tanzid Hassan was run out by Najibullah Zadran’s direct hit and Liton Das played on off Fazalhaq Farooqi, defending a tiny aim.
However, Najibullah missed a straightforward chance at point when Mehidy had just 16, and the same batter also survived a weak effort at third man when he had 23.
Shanto may have been run out on 16, but Rashid Khan’s attempt to take bails at the non-striker’s end was too nonchalant.
Read More: Irfan Pathan Predicts Top Batter and Top Bowler of ODI World Cup 2023
Despite a menacing spell from top leg-spinner Rashid, Mehidy and Shanto put up the decisive partnership.
Mehidy was out for 57 after a superb one-handed catch by Rahmat Shah high above his head at mid-off from the pace of Naveen-ul-Haq.
Shakib scored 14 before holeing out to deep square leg, permitting Shanto, who was undefeated on 59, to score the winning runs.
In addition to the outcome, England will be interested in the Dharamsala outfield’s terrible condition. Ben Stokes’ damaged hip may not be safe on the soft, sandy surface.
‘We Should Learn From Our Mistakes’ – Reaction
Bangladesh captain Shakib Al Hasan: “It wasn’t easy, but I’m pleased with how we bowled.”
“All five bowlers chipped in, the spinners played a bigger role but it’s a long tournament, I am sure the fast bowlers will contribute more.”
Afghanistan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi: “We had a good start, but after the first wicket fell, we had poor shot selection, but their bowlers bowled very tight.”
“We are excited about our upcoming games.” We must learn from our errors.”
Read Also: Prize Money for ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023: Winners to Receive USD 4 Million Prize Money
