Gurbaz century and Omarzai's heroics lead Afghanistan to series win

Afghanistan secured a thrilling five-wicket victory over Bangladesh in the third ODI, clinching the series 2-1 in Sharjah on November 11, 2024. Rahmanullah Gurbaz’s brilliant 101, supported by an unbeaten 70 from Azmatullah Omarzai, guided Afghanistan to chase down Bangladesh’s total of 244.

Gurbaz's century, his eighth in ODIs, was the cornerstone of Afghanistan's chase. He hit 42 runs in sixes alone and batted with confidence, even surviving a few moments of luck. His partnership of 100 runs with Omarzai after Afghanistan were 84 for 3 put them in a strong position. Gurbaz reached his century in the 38th over, putting Afghanistan on the brink of victory. 

However, Bangladesh fought back when Gurbaz and Gulbadin Naib were dismissed in quick succession. Afghanistan still needed 57 runs with just five wickets in hand. But Omarzai, who had failed to score in the previous two games, stepped up with a composed 70* off 77 balls, hitting five sixes, including one to seal the win. Mohammad Nabi also contributed with a quick-fire 34* to ensure Afghanistan crossed the line with 58 balls to spare.

Omarzai, who had earlier taken 4 wickets for 37 runs, was named Player of the Match for his outstanding all-round performance.

Earlier, Bangladesh posted 244 for 8, thanks to a brilliant 98 from Mahmudullah and 66 from Mehidy Hasan Miraz. Bangladesh’s innings saw a remarkable middle-order recovery after a collapse from 53 for 1 to 72 for 4. Mahmudullah and Mehidy’s partnership of 145 runs for the fifth wicket steadied the ship, but their slow start hindered their progress. Mahmudullah’s late boundaries, including two sixes, helped Bangladesh reach a competitive total.

However, despite Mahmudullah’s heroic efforts, including a DRS review and a dropped catch from Rashid Khan, Bangladesh’s total wasn’t enough. Mahmudullah was eventually run out on 98, and Afghanistan completed the chase without further hiccups.

Afghanistan's victory in this series marks their third consecutive series win, with Gurbaz and Omarzai playing key roles. The result highlights the team’s growing strength, both with the bat and the ball, as they continue their strong run in ODIs.