Abu Dhabi, September 16, 2025 – In one of the most gripping encounters of the tournament so far, Bangladesh defeated Afghanistan by 8 runs in match nine of the Asia Cup 2025 at Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi on Tuesday.
The result has kept the Bangla Tigers in contention for a place in the Super Four, though their fate still hinges on the remaining group fixtures.
Batting first, Bangladesh posted 154 for five in their 20 overs. Opener Tanzid Hasan provided the backbone of the innings with a well-compiled half-century, while Saif Hassan chipped in with a useful knock of 30. Tawhid Hridoy added a brisk cameo, but the side could not fully capitalize in the final overs. For Afghanistan, Rashid Khan and Noor Ahmad bowled with control, sharing four wickets and slowing the scoring rate during the middle stages. Azmatullah Omarzai also grabbed a wicket to keep Bangladesh in check.
Chasing 155, Afghanistan stumbled under pressure. Despite a promising 35 from Rahmanullah Gurbaz, they never found consistent partnerships. Early dismissals of Sediqullah Atal and Ibrahim Zadran inside the Powerplay left them reeling, and although Omarzai and Rashid Khan offered late resistance, the chase ended with Afghanistan all out for 146 on the final ball.
The Bangladesh bowlers deserve special credit for holding their nerve. Mustafizur Rahman was the standout, claiming three wickets, while Nasum Ahmed, Taskin Ahmed, and Rishad Hussain bagged two apiece. Their collective effort ensured Afghanistan could not build momentum at crucial phases of the innings.
This victory was particularly significant for Bangladesh as it marked their first win over Afghanistan away from home. It not only revived their campaign but also set up a dramatic finish in Group B. The qualification scenario now rests on Afghanistan’s next clash with Sri Lanka. If Sri Lanka wins, they and Bangladesh progress to the Super Four. But should Afghanistan triumph, Bangladesh will bow out despite their spirited fightback.
After several one-sided contests in the Asia Cup 2025, this result has brought the excitement fans had been waiting for, with back-to-back thrillers in Abu Dhabi shaping the tournament’s narrative.