BAN vs AFG Test Match Score
In a scintillating display of batting prowess, Najmul Hossain smashed his third century, propelling Bangladesh to a commanding position against Afghanistan on the opening day of their one-off test. Bangladesh reached an impressive 362-5, outmaneuvering Afghanistan’s bowlers on a sweltering day. Let’s delve into the thrilling details of this gripping encounter.
Incredible Innings by Najmul Hossain:
Najmul Hossain showcased his batting brilliance, delivering a masterful innings of 146 runs from just 175 balls. His aggressive strokeplay, featuring 23 fours and two sixes, kept Afghanistan’s bowlers at bay. Partnering with opener Mahmudul Hasan, Najmul forged a formidable second-wicket partnership of 212 runs, effectively derailing Afghanistan’s strategic plans. Also Read : Women’s T20 Emerging Asia Cup 2023 : India A beat Hong Kong by 9 wickets
Mahmudul Hasan’s Solid Contribution:
Opener Mahmudul Hasan, though falling short of a century, made a valuable contribution with his composed knock of 76 runs, which included nine well-timed boundaries. His partnership with Najmul bolstered Bangladesh’s dominance, setting the stage for a formidable total.
Resolute Stand at Stumps:
At the close of play, Mehidy Hasan stood firm at the crease with an unbeaten 43, accompanied by Mushfiqur Rahim, who scored a solid 41. Together, they constructed a resilient partnership of 72 runs for the sixth wicket, consolidating Bangladesh’s position of strength.
Afghanistan’s Decision and Early Breakthrough:
Winning the toss, Afghanistan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi opted to bowl first, hoping to gain an advantage. Initially, their decision seemed wise, until Najmul’s resilient innings thwarted their plans. However, pace bowler Nijatullah Masood provided a glimmer of hope for Afghanistan when he dismissed Zakir Hasan caught behind by wicket-keeper Afsar Zazai for 1. This remarkable feat marked Masood’s debut test wicket.
Najmul’s Counterattack:
Undeterred by the early setback, Najmul launched a spirited counterattack, epitomizing Bangladesh’s aggressive brand of cricket. He ruthlessly punished anything short, racing to his fourth test fifty off just 58 balls. A powerful pull shot off the left-arm wrist spinner found the boundary behind backward square leg. His dominant form continued as he reached his well-deserved century off a mere 118 deliveries, seemingly impervious to Afghanistan’s lackluster bowling attack.
Afghanistan’s Fightback:
Rahmat Shah, an occasional legspinner, provided the much-needed breakthrough for Afghanistan by dismissing Mahmudul Hasan, caught by Ibrahim Zadran at slip. Despite this setback, Afghanistan struggled to contain Bangladesh’s momentum.
Afghanistan’s Late Surge:
In the final session, Afghanistan gained some traction, bolstered by the impressive debutant Nijatullah Masood, who finished with figures of 2-67. Masood dismissed Mominul Haque, caught behind by the wicketkeeper for 15, and later rattled Najmul’s stumps with a swinging delivery. However, to Afghanistan’s dismay, the wicket was overturned due to a no-ball, granting Najmul a lifeline.
Najmul’s Dismissal and Further Losses:
Regrettably, Najmul failed to capitalize on the reprieve and fell shortly after, chipping a straightforward catch to deep midwicket off the bowling of left-arm spinner Amir Hamza. Furthermore, on his captaincy debut, Liton Das succumbed to the flight of left-arm wrist spinner Zahir Khan, edging the ball to the first slip, resulting in Bangladesh’s
