Asia Cup 2018: Discussion points as Afghans run over Bangladesh
What's the story
Afghanistan's ODI exploits are growing day by day. After beating Sri Lanka comfortably in their Asia Cup 2018 opener, the Afghans thrashed Bangladesh by 136 runs to gain bragging rights. Till now in the tournament, the Afghans have looked like the most complete unit. With some solid blend of experience and youth, the side is flying high. Here are the key discussion points.
Rashid
Youngster Rashid savors special day
Rashid Khan was the chief architect of Afghanistan's victory as he contributed with both bat and ball. The spinner, who turned 20 on Thursday, struck a whirlwind knock of 32-ball 57. He shared a 95 run-partnership for the eighth wicket with Gulbadin Naib (42*) to rescue Afghanistan from a position of bother. Rashid, then, came in and picked 2/13 in his 9-over spell.
Momentum
Bangladesh surrender momentum in final nine overs
Bangladesh were cruising ahead at one stage as Afghans were reeling at 160/7. From there on, they lost the plot completely. The last 54 deliveries saw them conceding 95 runs. The blitz by Rashid and some wayward bowling hurt the Tigers and the momentum shifted big time. Mortaza gave away four boundaries in the final over. This summed up Bangladesh's bowling.
Bowlers
Bangladesh batsmen choke against classy Afghan bowlers
There was no intent in Bangladesh's chase. They were missing senior players Tamim Iqbal and Mushfiqur Rahim badly. They kept losing wickets and there were no partnerships, which came to their rescue. Pacers Aftab Alam and Naib were terrific with early wickets and put Bangladesh on the back foot. The spinners came in and never allowed Bangladesh batsmen to breathe easy.
Information
Afghan spin trio the best in business
Full credit to the trio of Afghan spinners who showed their dominance once again. Youngsters Mujeeb Ur Rahman and Rashid Khan were, once again, too hot to handle for the Tigers. The experienced Mohammad Nabi added a voice. 5 wickets between them made the difference.