Revisiting the epic totals that showcased batting might in Afghanistan vs Bangladesh T20Is
In the realm of T20 cricket, few contests are as riveting as the duels between Afghanistan and Bangladesh. As the T20 World Cup Super-Eight stages heat up, both teams are on tenterhooks.
With Afghanistan riding high after a thrilling victory against Australia and Bangladesh smarting from a recent defeat to India, the upcoming clash is more than just a match; it’s a battle for a coveted spot in the semi-finals. With this backdrop, we delve into the top 4 highest team totals in Afghanistan vs. Bangladesh T20I history.
Afghanistan’s encounter with Bangladesh on June 3, 2018 in Dehradun was nothing short of a masterclass in resilience and tactical nous. Batting first, Afghanistan set a formidable total of 167 for 8, thanks to gritty performances from Mohammad Shahzad (40) and SamiullahShenwari (36). The Bangladeshi bowlers, led by Mahmudullah with figures of 2-1, put up a valiant fight but couldn't completely contain the Afghan firepower.
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Shahzad on the hunt
When it was Bangladesh’s turn to bat, they found themselves in a web spun by Rashid Khan. His 3 for 13 was instrumental in dismantling the opposition, with the key dismissals of Liton Das (30) and Mahmudullah (29). Rashid's fielding was equally commendable, as he took a stunning diving catch to remove Abu Jayed, sealing a comprehensive 45-run victory for Afghanistan.
The match on September 15, 2019 in Mirpur was a testament to Afghanistan's fighting spirit. After a shaky start, with the team at 40 for 4, Mohammad Nabi took the reins. His blistering 84 off 54 balls, adorned with seven sixes and three fours, was a sight to behold. Nabi's partnership with Asghar Afghan (40) was pivotal, steering Afghanistan to a respectable 164 for 6.
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Nabi hitting the ball aggressively
Bangladesh, in response, faltered under pressure. Mujeeb Ur Rahman's 4 for 15 decimated the top order, while Rashid Khan and GulbadinNaib chipped in with crucial wickets. The disciplined bowling and sharp fielding ensured a 25-run victory for Afghanistan, reaffirming their dominance in the format.
In a nerve-wracking contest on July 14, 2023, in Sylhet, Bangladesh eked out a two-wicket win against Afghanistan. Chasing 155, Bangladesh found themselves in hot water at 64 for 4. It was the partnership between Towhid Hridoy (47*) and Shamim Hossain (33) that turned the tide, with their 73-run stand laying the foundation for a thrilling finish.
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Hridoy’s knock helps Bangladesh to put a commendable total
The final over saw a dramatic twist, with Karim Janat claiming a hat-trick and bringing the game to the brink. However, it was Shoriful Islam’s cool-headed boundary that eventually sealed the win for Bangladesh. Earlier, Mohammad Nabi’s unbeaten 54 had anchored Afghanistan’s innings, ensuring a competitive total.
The match on March 3, 2022, in Mirpur was highlighted by Nasum Ahmed’s extraordinary bowling. His 4 for 10 in the powerplay set the stage for Bangladesh’s emphatic 61-run victory. Litton Das (60) and Afif Hossain (25) contributed significantly to Bangladesh's 155 for 8, giving the bowlers a decent total to defend.
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Das celebrating his fifty
Nasum’s spell dismantled Afghanistan’s top order, making it nearly impossible for them to chase down the target. Shoriful Islam also played a key role, picking up three wickets, including that of the dangerous Rashid Khan. The disciplined bowling and strategic field placements under Mahmudullah’s captaincy were instrumental in ending Bangladesh’s losing streak in T20Is.
