Rahmanullah Gurbaz plays a shot. — X
Rahmanullah Gurbaz's explosive century and Azmatullah Omarzai's all-round brilliance dismantled Bangladesh in Sharjah as Afghanistan secured a thrilling five-wicket victory on Monday, clinching the one-day series 2-1. Chasing a target of 245, Afghanistan's Gurbaz and Omarzai forged a 100-run partnership after the top-order struggled against Bangladesh's pace attack, spearheaded by Mustafizur Rahman. Gurbaz's 101 off 120 balls, featuring seven sixes and five fours, was pivotal in the series decider. Omarzai (70 not out) balanced caution with aggression, guiding Afghanistan to victory alongside Mohammad Nabi.
Bangladesh, having won the toss, made a solid start with openers Tanzid Hasan and Soumya Sarkar contributing 53 runs in the first powerplay. However, Afghanistan responded with four quick wickets, leaving Bangladesh reeling at 72/4. Captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Mahmudullah then took control, sharing a 145-run partnership off 188 balls to propel Bangladesh to 244-8. Mahmudullah narrowly missed a century, finishing as Bangladesh's top scorer with 98 off 98 balls, while Mehidy, playing his 100th ODI, scored a steady 66.
With this victory over Bangladesh, Afghanistan has now secured their third consecutive ODI series win of the year.
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