Bangladesh U-19s begin Afghanistan series with 33-run win
Bangladesh U-19s secured a 33-run victory over Afghanistan in the opening match of the Youth ODI series in Oman, thanks to Rakibul Hossan's unbeaten 79 and Rubay Islam Rizon's five-wicket haul.
Bangladesh’s new-look U-19 team began their campaign in style, beating Afghanistan by 33 runs in the opening match of a four-match Youth ODI series at the Al Amerat Cricket Ground in Oman on Saturday.
Opting to bat first, Bangladesh posted 250 for eight in their 50 overs, thanks to an unbeaten 79 off 78 balls from Rakibul Hossan. Ahsan Al Mumin (54) and SK Jarif Siyam (50) also struck half-centuries.
Bangladesh were in trouble at 111 for five before Ahsan and Rakibul combined for a 117-run partnership for the sixth wicket, the highest for Bangladesh in Youth ODIs, to help the visitors post a competitive total.
In reply, Afghanistan looked well placed at 211 for six in the 47th over but suffered a dramatic collapse, losing their last four wickets for just six runs to be bowled out for 217 in 48.2 overs.
Pacer Rubay Islam Rizon marked his Youth ODI debut with an impressive five-wicket haul, claiming five for 37, while pacer Sheikh Atiqur Rahman took two wickets to help Bangladesh secure a 1-0 lead in the series.
Hamza Khan top-scored for Afghanistan with 51 off 71 balls, but the other batters struggled against Bangladesh’s bowling attack.
The second match will be held at the same venue on Monday.