When Najmul Hossain Shanto, captain of Bangladesh national cricket team won the toss and chose to bat, few could have predicted the drama that would unfold at the DP World Asia Cup 2025Dubai, United Arab Emirates on September 16. Bangladesh edged Afghanistan by four wickets, a win that suddenly threw a lifeline to their Super‑4 ambitions.
Background: The Stakes in Group B
Group B entered the match with Afghanistan perched on eight points after a solid opening victory over Hong Kong, while Bangladesh languished at four, needing a decisive result to keep the knockout door open. The Asian Cricket Council (ACC), the tournament’s governing body, had warned that the next two fixtures would likely decide which three sides join the hosts for the Super‑4 stage.
ACC officials, represented by Asian Cricket Council, had scheduled the Bangladesh‑Afghanistan clash at an undisclosed venue in Dubai, a decision that added a layer of logistical mystery to the high‑pressure encounter.
Match Summary: How the Game Unfolded
Afghanistan elected to field first, banking on early breakthroughs from pacer Mustafur Rahman, right‑arm seamer. Rahman repaid the trust by removing the Afghan number‑five at 77/5, skidding the ball onto the stumps after an inside edge. The commentary described it as “a cheeky shot that back‑fired on the inside edge.”
His partner, Tusar Khan Ahmed, followed up with a crucial wicket, dismissing the in‑form Omar Zai with a sharp delivery that “did the trick,” according to the broadcast.
Afghanistan’s innings stalled at 77 for five, but a late surge from Mohammad Nabi – two back‑to‑back sixes that sent the ball “right out of the screws” – lifted the total to a modest 118. Their last five overs produced 33 runs at a 6.6 run‑rate, barely keeping the target within reach.
Bangladesh’s chase was anything but smooth. After a flying start, they suffered a “massive collapse,” losing three wickets for just eight runs. The turning point arrived with a brilliant run‑out of Ibrahim Zadran, adjudicated by the third umpire after a tense throw to the keeper.
With the required run rate ticking up, Shanto steadied the ship, guiding the lower order to the finish line. Bangladesh sealed the win by four wickets, sparking celebrations among the team and their fans.
Key Performances: Who Stood Out?
- Mustafur Rahman – 2 wickets for 12 runs in 3 overs, the catalyst for Afghanistan’s early wobble.
- Tusar Khan Ahmed – 1/14, his dismissal of Omar Zai swung momentum.
- Mohammad Nabi – 30 runs, including two consecutive sixes, the lone bright spot for Afghanistan.
- Najmul Hossain Shanto – 28* off 20 balls, steadying Bangladesh’s chase after the collapse.
- Mushtaq Ahmed – the voice of belief on the Bangladesh sidelines, urging his side to “remember they belong at this level.”
Coaches’ Perspectives: Belief vs. Ambition
Mushtaq Ahmed, Bangladesh coach had pre‑match stressed that “belief is key.” After the win, he reiterated that confidence, not just skill, fuels success on the international stage.
Across the pavilion, Jonathan Trott, Afghanistan coach tried to put a positive spin on the defeat, reminding his side that “we can pick a side capable of winning in most conditions.” He acknowledged the need to regroup quickly, especially with the Super‑4 race tightening.
Broadcast analysts added their two cents. Former Indian cricketer Wasim Jaffer on ESPN said, “the Omar Zai wicket was the turning point in Afghanistan’s chase.” Commentator Abhinav Mukund highlighted the mental resilience shown by Bangladesh after the middle‑order collapse.
Implications: Super‑4 Qualification Awaits
With the win, Bangladesh jumps to six points, sitting second behind Afghanistan, which sits on eight. The next round‑robin game against Bangladesh will be decisive – a win there could catapult Bangladesh into the top two, while a loss would likely end their Super‑4 dream.
For Afghanistan, the loss narrows the margin. They must secure victories in their remaining two matches to guarantee a Super‑4 berth, a task made harder by the tournament’s tight schedule.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Both Teams?
The ACC announced that the following fixtures will be played on September 19 and 21, both in Dubai. Bangladesh will face Sri Lanka, a side known for explosive batting, while Afghanistan meets the United Arab Emirates, a team eager to cause an upset.
Both coaches have hinted at rotating their squads to manage fatigue. Mushtaq Ahmed says he may give a debut to a promising fast‑bowler who impressed in the domestic league, whereas Trott is eyeing a senior all‑rounder to add depth.
Fans can expect live coverage on regional sports networks, with highlights uploaded to the ACC’s official YouTube channel shortly after each match.
Key Takeaways
- Bangladesh’s four‑wicket win keeps Super‑4 hopes alive.
- Mustafur Rahman and Tusar Khan Ahmed were the game‑changing bowlers.
- Coaches emphasized belief (Bangladesh) and adaptability (Afghanistan).
- The next two matches will likely determine the final Super‑4 lineup.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does this result affect Bangladesh’s chances of reaching the Super‑4?
The victory lifts Bangladesh to six points, placing them second in Group B behind Afghanistan. A win in their next match against Sri Lanka would likely secure a Super‑4 spot, while a loss could see them eliminated, making the upcoming game a must‑win.
What were the decisive moments that turned the match in Bangladesh’s favor?
Two key moments stood out: the early wickets taken by Mustafur Rahman and Tusar Khan Ahmed, which stalled Afghanistan at 77/5, and the run‑out of Ibrahim Zadran, adjudicated by the third umpire, which broke Afghanistan’s momentum. Shanto’s composed finish sealed the win.
Who were the top performers for each side?
For Bangladesh, Mustafur Rahman (2/12) and captain Najmul Hossain Shanto (28* off 20) were decisive. Afghanistan’s standout was Mohammad Nabi, who contributed 30 runs with two sixes, but lacked support from the rest of the line‑up.
What did the coaches say after the match?
Bangladesh coach Mushtaq Ahmed praised his side’s belief, saying confidence is essential at the international level. Afghanistan coach Jonathan Trott remained optimistic, noting the squad’s ability to adapt and promising better performances in upcoming games.
When and where will the next Group B matches be played?
The remaining fixtures are set for September 19 and 21, 2025, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium in the United Arab Emirates. Bangladesh faces Sri Lanka, while Afghanistan takes on the UAE.
