The Bangladesh Under-19 team started their Asia Cup campaign with a solid 45-run victory over Afghanistan in the opening match at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. The young Tigers posted a competitive total of 228 runs, thanks to a stellar partnership between captain Azizul Hakim Tamim and Kalam Siddiqui, followed by an exceptional bowling performance led by Al Fahad and Iqbal Hossain Imon.
Bangladesh’s Innings
Opting to bat first, Bangladesh faced an early blow, losing a wicket in the very first over. However, Tamim and Kalam steadied the innings with a remarkable 142-run partnership for the second wicket. Kalam scored a well-paced 66 off 110 balls, while Tamim anchored the innings with an outstanding century, scoring 103 runs. Despite their efforts, the team struggled to capitalize on the platform after Tamim’s departure, with no other batter making a significant impact. They finished with 228 for 9 in their 50 overs.
Afghanistan’s bowlers, particularly Abdul Aziz, Khateer Stanikzai, and Nooristani Omarzai, each picked up two wickets, ensuring Bangladesh couldn’t finish stronger.
Afghanistan’s Chase
In response, Afghanistan’s batters faltered under the pressure of chasing. They began cautiously, scoring only 20 runs in the first eight overs without losing a wicket. However, Maruf Mridha broke the opening stand at 21 runs, dismissing Uzairullah Niazi.
Captain Mahbub Khan (16) and Faisal Khan Ahmadzai (58) provided some resistance, putting up partnerships of 45 and 40 runs for the second and third wickets, respectively. Faisal’s half-century was the highlight of Afghanistan’s innings, but once he was dismissed, the team lost momentum. Only Barkat Ibrahimzai (34) and a few lower-order contributions could add to the total, and the innings folded at 183 in 47.5 overs.
Bowling Heroics
Bangladesh’s bowlers shone brightly, with Al Fahad and Iqbal Hossain Imon taking three wickets each. Maruf picked up two, while Rafi chipped in with one crucial breakthrough. Their disciplined effort ensured Afghanistan never got close to the target.
Summary
Bangladesh: 228/9 (50 overs)
Tamim: 103 (Captain’s knock)
Kalam: 66
Top Afghan Bowlers: Abdul Aziz, Khateer Stanikzai, Nooristani Omarzai (2 wickets each)
Afghanistan: 183 all out (47.5 overs)
Top Afghan Batter: Faisal Khan Ahmadzai (58)
Top Bangladeshi Bowlers: Al Fahad, Iqbal Hossain Imon (3 wickets each)
This victory gives Bangladesh a strong start in the Youth Asia Cup, with promising performances from both batters and bowlers.