CWC 2023: Mehidy Hasan's dominant performance drives Bangladesh to victory against Afghanistan

Mehidy Hasan Miraz's stellar all-round performance propelled Bangladesh to their first victory in the 2023 World Cup against Afghanistan. The Afghan boys struggled both with the bat and ball in today's match held in Dharamsala. In addition to Mehidy, Shakib Al Hasan, Shoriful Islam, and Najmul Hossain Shanto made significant contributions to their team's success.

Upon winning the toss, Bangladesh's captain, Shakib, opted to bowl first. Gurbaz (47) and Ibrahim Zadran (22) established an impressive 47-run partnership for Afghanistan's opening wicket. However, it was Shakib who ultimately broke this partnership. Gurbaz then attempted to build the innings alongside Rahmat Shah, but Shakib once again intervened to disrupt this potentially dangerous partnership. Just as Gurbaz was nearing his half-century, Mustafizur dismissed him, triggering a collapse for Afghanistan. Both Shakib and Mehidy Hasan wreaked havoc on Afghanistan's batting lineup, leaving no room for recovery. What had initially been 82/1 rapidly plummeted to 156/10 in 37.2 overs. While Mehidy (3/25) scalped three wickets, Shakib (2/34) bagged two wickets.

During Bangladesh's pursuit of the modest target, they lost the wickets of their openers, Tanzid Hasan and Litton Das, early on. However, Mehidy Hasan and Najmul Hossain Shanto adopted a cautious approach, ensuring they didn't surrender their wickets easily. Their resilient 97-run partnership virtually guaranteed Bangladesh a comfortable victory. Mehidy (57) reached a half-century before getting dismissed, but Shanto ensured his team reached the winning shore without much trouble. In the process, Shanto also notched up an unbeaten half-century (59*) of his own. Ultimately, Bangladesh reached a total of 158/4 in 34.4 overs, securing victory by six wickets.

Bangladesh will next face England on October 10 in Dharamsala. Afghanistan will play against India on October 11 in Delhi.

Scorecard:

Afghanistan: 156/10 (37.2 overs)

Bangladesh: 158/4 (34.4 overs)