The Afghanistan Under-19 cricket team have set a challenging target of 276 runs for Bangladesh in the third Youth One-Day International (ODI) of the ongoing series. Playing at the Rajshahi Divisional Stadium, the Afghan youngsters posted an impressive 275 for 7 in their allotted 50 overs after being asked to bat first.
Winning the toss on Wednesday morning, the visitors elected to bat but suffered an early blow, losing their first wicket for just 10 runs in the third over. However, their No. 3 batter Faisal Khan steadied the innings with a commanding performance. Playing with confidence and precision, he launched a counterattack on the Bangladeshi bowlers, bringing up a well-deserved century off 105 balls, decorated with 14 boundaries and 2 sixes.
Faisal’s dismissal, courtesy of Azizul Hakim Tamim, gave Bangladesh a glimmer of hope to regain control. By the time Afghanistan lost their fifth wicket for 210 runs, the hosts seemed to have found their rhythm. But the Afghan skipper Mahbub Khan ensured his team finished strongly. Leading from the front, he played a captain’s knock of 68 not out off 78 deliveries, featuring 7 fours and a six, guiding his side to a competitive total.
For Bangladesh, Al Fahad and Azizul Hakim Tamim each picked up two wickets, providing key breakthroughs at vital stages.
The Afghan batting card is summarised below:
| Batter | Runs | Balls | Fours | Sixes | Dismissal |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Faisal Khan | 100 | 105 | 14 | 2 | Caught |
| Mahbub Khan (Captain) | 68* | 78 | 7 | 1 | Not Out |
| Rashid Nabi Jr | 35 | 42 | 5 | 0 | Bowled |
| Omar Hafiz | 24 | 31 | 2 | 1 | Caught |
| Others | 48 | — | — | — | — |
| Total | 275/7 (50 overs) |
As the match enters its second innings, Bangladesh’s young Tigers face a formidable challenge. To clinch victory, they will need disciplined batting and composure against Afghanistan’s spirited bowling attack. The chase at Rajshahi promises to be a test of both skill and temperament for the Bangladeshi youngsters.