Bangladesh bowlers dominated the first innings as Afghanistan were restricted to 143 for 9 in the third T20I at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium.
Bangladesh captain Jaker Ali Anik won the toss and chose to bowl first. The decision paid off early. Shoriful Islam struck in the second over, removing Ibrahim Zadran.
Soon after, Nasum Ahmed joined the party. He dismissed Rahmanullah Gurbaz in the fourth over. Gurbaz tried to hit over extra cover but found Shamim Hossain, who took a stunning diving catch. The commentators called it the “Catch of the Series.”
Afghanistan’s trouble deepened when Saifuddin bowled Tarakhil for 11 on the last ball of the powerplay. They reached 39 for 3 after six overs.
Wickets kept falling at regular intervals as Bangladesh fielders put on an excellent display. Nasum Ahmed was outstanding again, picking up the wickets of Gurbaz and Nabi to finish with 2 for 24. He also grabbed a smart catch at deep fine leg to dismiss Rashid Khan.
Despite the collapse, Darwish Rasooli and Mujeeb Ur Rahman fought back. Rasooli made 32 off 29 balls, while Mujeeb stayed unbeaten on 23 off 18 deliveries, hitting four boundaries. Their partnership helped Afghanistan cross the 140 mark.
The innings ended with Afghanistan posting 143 for 9, giving their bowlers a target to defend.
