In a stunning display of spin bowling, Allah Ghazanfar claimed a career-best six-wicket haul to help Afghanistan secure a commanding 92-run victory over Bangladesh in the first ODI in Sharjah on Wednesday.
Ghazanfar dismantled Bangladesh’s middle and lower order, finishing with remarkable figures of 6 for 26 in just 6.3 overs. His match-winning spell came in two parts, but his final 2.3 overs were devastating as he claimed five wickets, turning Bangladesh’s chase from a comfortable 132/3 to 143 all out in mere minutes.
The shocking collapse saw Bangladesh lose their final seven wickets for just 11 runs in a span of four overs.
Ghazanfar’s performance also set a new record for the best bowling figures in Afghanistan-Bangladesh ODIs, surpassing Shakib Al Hasan‘s 5-29 from their 2019 World Cup encounter in Southampton.
The young off-spinner was introduced after Mohammad Nabi had already removed the well-set Najmul Hossain Shanto for 47. Ghazanfar immediately took control, starting his carnage by dismissing Mehidy Hasan, followed by a ruthless display in his next over. He stumped veteran Mushfiqur Rahim, trapped Rishad Hossain lbw, and bowled Taskin Ahmed for a golden duck. He sealed the victory with the dismissal of Shoriful Islam, securing Afghanistan’s emphatic win and etching his name in the record books.
Who is Allah Ghazanfar?
Allah Ghazanfar is an 18-year-old rising star in Afghanistan cricket, known for his tall frame and right-arm off-break deliveries. He made his international debut against Ireland in March 2024 but had a challenging start, going wicketless in his first two matches.
However, Ghazanfar quickly bounced back, making a statement with a brilliant performance against South Africa in September, where he took 3 for 20 in his 10 overs, including two maiden overs.
In his short ODI career, Ghazanfar has played all six of his matches in Sharjah, where he has now claimed 10 wickets. His rapid rise to prominence has been punctuated by his match-winning six-wicket haul against Bangladesh.
Ghazanfar also tasted success in the IPL earlier this year, being a part of the title-winning Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) squad.
With his impressive start in international cricket, he is quickly establishing himself as a key player for Afghanistan’s future.
This performance against Bangladesh will undoubtedly raise expectations around the young spinner, who is already showing immense potential in just the early stages of his career.
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