FINALLY, the Tigers were able to strike back and come out of the pressure situation to win the last ODI against Afghanistan. They won the series, thanks to a sparkling century by opener Tamim Iqbal. Tamim paved the way for rest of his team to beat the Afghans hollow. Sabbir also provided useful support by playing a brilliant innings of 65 and helped his team gain a solid foundation. The series-deciding third ODI ultimately turned out to be a no-contest, which the hosts won by 141 runs.
The match was virtually sealed in the 23rd over of Afghanistan's 280 chase, when Samiullah Shenwari was dismissed, leaving Afghanistan on 83 for 5. They succumbed to the spin attack of the home team and were bowled out for 138 in the 34th over. Mosharraf Hossain staged a good come back and picked up three wickets with his left-arm spin. This was the 100th ODI win for Bangladesh. Sabbir Rahman featured in a 140-run second-wicket stand with and Mahmudullah to provide late impetus with a cameo 32 which left Afghanistan with a target of 280.
The Afghans also played some good cricket and they have the potential to be a strong side within a short time. Captain Mashrafee and his team deserve kudos for holding their nerves in the final match which was not an easy thing to do.
I am sure this tough series will help Bangladesh gain enough confidence in the coming series against a strong England.
Akmal Hossain
Narayanganj
