Afghanistan were clinical and commanding in the opening ODI at Sharjah, outplaying Bangladesh in all departments to take a 1–0 lead in the three-match series. Their approach was measured yet aggressive, proving why they have become such a formidable side in ODI cricket.
Bangladesh’s Batting Collapse Proves Costly
Bangladesh began their innings well, with Towhid Hridoy once again looking composed at the crease. His fluent stroke play helped the visitors get off to a steady start on a challenging pitch. However, his unfortunate run-out completely shifted the game’s momentum.
What followed was a collapse that exposed Bangladesh’s recurring issue — a lack of partnerships and composure under pressure. Skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto tried to hold the innings together, but wickets kept tumbling at the other end. Mehidy Hasan Miraz and the lower order couldn’t add much resistance either, as Afghanistan’s disciplined bowling and sharp fielding shut the door on any recovery.
Afghanistan’s Chase: Calm and Clinical
In contrast, Afghanistan’s chase was a display of professionalism. Their top order set the tone early — Ibrahim Zadran and Rahmanullah Gurbaz provided a stable platform, while Rahmat Shah and Hashmatullah Shahidi ensured the momentum never dipped.
Afghanistan’s batting unit, often under scrutiny in the T20 format, looked far more settled in the 50-over game. The maturity shown by their middle order and the ease with which they rotated strike reflected a confident side playing to its strengths.
Pitch & Conditions – Another Slow and Low Surface Expected
The second ODI will again be played at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, a venue known for its low bounce and assistance to spinners. Scoring freely will be a challenge, especially during the middle overs when the ball grips and turns.
However, there is likely to be a touch of dew in the evening, which could make batting slightly easier under lights. As a result, teams winning the toss might prefer to bowl first and chase later.
Bangladesh’s Road to Redemption
Bangladesh now face a must-win situation to keep the series alive. For them, it’s not just about adjusting to conditions, but also regaining belief and finding stability in their batting order.
Towhid Hridoy remains their most consistent performer in recent matches, while captain Najmul Hossain Shanto must anchor the innings and lead from the front. Mehidy Hasan Miraz will be key — not just as an all-rounder but also as a potential finisher down the order. His ability to steady the innings and pick wickets in the middle overs will be vital if Bangladesh are to challenge Afghanistan.
The bowling attack, led by Taskin Ahmed and Shoriful Islam, needs to deliver early breakthroughs. Miraz and Nasum Ahmed’s spin partnership could also play a decisive role on this slow track.
Afghanistan’s Confidence and Momentum
Afghanistan, on the other hand, are brimming with confidence. Their bowling attack — featuring Rashid Khan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, and Mohammad Nabi — thrives in these conditions. The trio’s ability to control the game in the middle overs gives Afghanistan a massive advantage.
With their batting unit firing and bowlers operating at peak precision, Afghanistan have the perfect opportunity to wrap up the series 2–0. A win here would not only seal the series but also underline their growing consistency in ODI cricket.
Prediction
Given the current form, balance, and conditions, Afghanistan once again enter as clear favorites. Their spinners are tailor-made for Sharjah, and their batters seem to have adapted well to the surface.
Bangladesh, however, are capable of a comeback if their top order clicks and Miraz delivers a strong all-round performance. But it will take discipline, smart batting, and near-perfect execution to level the series.
Predicted Edge: Afghanistan to win and seal the series 2–0.
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