Bangladesh 'A' team produced a composed batting display to secure a convincing eight-wicket victory over Afghanistan 'A', chasing down a modest target of 79 in just 13.3 overs in a Group A fixture of the Asia Cup Rising Stars 2025 at West End Park International Cricket Stadium in Doha on Monday.
The match was defined by disciplined Bangladeshi bowling at the start, followed by a steady, risk-free chase led by Zawad Abrar and Mahidul Islam Ankon.
Afghanistan 'A', batting first, were bundled out for 78 in 18.4 overs. Early damage came from seamer Ripon Mondol, who removed the top order with figures of 3 for 10. Left-arm spinner Rakibul Hasan then tightened the game further, claiming 3 for 7 in his effective four-over spell.
Only captain Darwish Abdul Rasool (27 off 28) showed resistance, stitching brief stands but receiving little support. Qais Ahmad contributed an unbeaten 12, but wickets fell regularly, including two golden ducks in the lower order. Afghanistan's run rate never picked up, finishing at 4.18.
In response, Bangladesh 'A' lost two early wickets -- Habibur Rahman for 10 and Jishan Alam for 12 -- both claimed by spinner AM Ghazanfar, who finished with 2 for 10. However, with the score at 24 for 2, Zawad Abrar and Mahidul Islam Ankon took control. Their unbeaten 55-run partnership ensured a smooth chase, with Zawad scoring a brisk 24 off 22 and Ankon anchoring the innings with 27 off 30. Extras contributed six runs, helping Bangladesh cross the line comfortably.
The clinical execution with ball and bat underscored Bangladesh A's control throughout the match, while Afghanistan A will look to fine-tune their batting as they will want to qualify for the knockouts as defending champions.