Bangladesh Edges Afghanistan in a Thrilling Asia Cup 2025 Clash to Keep Super Four Hopes Alive

In a captivating Group B encounter at the Asia Cup 2025 held in Abu Dhabi, Bangladesh secured a narrow 8-run victory over Afghanistan, revitalizing their chances to advance to the Super Four stage of the tournament.

Winning the toss, Bangladesh captain Litton Das opted to bat first, and the Tigers posted a modest but competitive total of 154 for 5 in their allotted 20 overs. Opening batsman Tanzid Hasan Tamim played a pivotal innings, scoring a swift 52 off 31 balls, while Saif Hassan supported him with 30 runs. This solid opening stand laid a strong foundation before Afghanistan’s spinners, notably Noor Ahmad and Rashid Khan, applied pressure and claimed wickets to restrict Bangladesh's final score.

In response, Afghanistan’s chase saw some bright moments from Rahmanullah Gurbaz, who top-scored with 35 runs, and Azmatullah Omarzai’s quickfire 30. However, Bangladesh’s bowlers delivered critical breakthroughs at key stages. Mustafizur Rahman was the standout with three wickets, while Nasum Ahmed, Taskin Ahmed, and Rishad Hossain contributed with two wickets each, collectively dismantling the Afghan batting line-up for 146 runs.

Nasum Ahmed’s opening bowling spell set the tone by dismissing the dangerous Sediqullah Atal for a golden duck and was later named Player of the Match for his impactful performance. Mustafizur Rahman’s precise death bowling further ensured Bangladesh’s victory by maintaining tight control in the final overs.

This victory boosts Bangladesh's standings in Group B, placing them at four points after three matches, compared to Afghanistan's two points from two games. Sri Lanka currently tops the group with four points, while Hong Kong has been eliminated.

The victory carries significant weight, allowing Bangladesh to stay in contention for the Super Four round amidst a highly competitive group. Both teams now look ahead to their upcoming fixtures, with Bangladesh aiming to maintain momentum and Afghanistan striving to rebound.