Gurbaz ton gives Afghanistan a consolation win

Rahmanullah Gurbaz’s brilliant 106 not out denied Bangladesh to whitewash Afghanistan as the visitors win the third and final ODI by 7 wickets at Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium.

Gurbaz who converted all of his three half-centuries to century in his just ninth game, not only denied Bangladesh a clean sweep of the series but also snatched 10 valuable Super League points.

Bangladesh won the first game by four wickets and then clinched the series with an 88-run win in the second game.

Bangladesh were bundled out for just 192 in 46.5 overs by the Afghan bowlers. Afghanistan made the victory a cakewalk, racing to the winning mark with 59 balls remaining.

Gurbaz was supported by his fellow opener Riaz Hasan and Rahmat Shah.

Off Spinner Mehidy Hasan finished with 2-37 while Shakib Al Hasan struck one to break the partnership of Gurbaz and Riaz.

Earlier, despite a valiant effort of Liton Das, Bangladesh were shot out for a paltry total.

Liton Das was the only batter to resist against top-class bowling of Afghanistan, led by leg spinner Rashid Khan who claimed 3-37 and was ably supported by Mohammad Nabi’s 2-29.

Liton struck 113 ball-86, clobbering seven boundaries. Shakib Al Hasan added 30 and Mahmudullah Riyad was not out on 29. Tamim Iqbal with 11 was the other one to reach double digits.

ARR