Bangladesh's loss in the series-deciding third ODI to Afghanistan at Sharjah Cricket Stadium handed the visitors a 2-1 series win. Afghanistan's victory was largely driven by Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Azmatullah Omarzai, who delivered both with the bat and the ball.

Key Performances:

Rahmanullah Gurbaz scored a magnificent 101 off 120 balls, marking his eighth ODI century in just 46 matches, becoming the third fastest player to reach that milestone.

Azmatullah Omarzai starred with the ball, taking 4-37, and then played a match-winning knock of 70* off 77 balls, sealing the game with a six.

Bangladesh's Innings:

Mahmudullah Riyad, overcoming a lean patch, played a gritty knock of 98 off 98 balls, striking seven fours and three sixes to help Bangladesh to a competitive 244/8.

Mehidy Hasan Miraz, in his 100th ODI and as captain, made a patient 66 off 106 balls, becoming the fifth Bangladeshi to score a half-century on debut as captain.

Afghanistan's Response:

Afghanistan chased down the target of 245 with 10 balls to spare, reaching 246/5. Despite early setbacks at 84/3, Gurbaz and Omarzai combined for a crucial 100-run partnership to steady the innings. Mohammad Nabi (34*) also played a key role in the chase's success.

Bangladesh's Struggles:

Bangladesh's top order faltered early, with Tanzid Hasan Tamim (19) and Soumya Sarkar (24) failing to convert starts. Nahid Rana, making his ODI debut, was impressive with 2/40. Bangladesh's middle order, despite Mahmudullah's resilience, couldn’t cope with Afghanistan's bowling attack, leading to their downfall.

In the end, Mahmudullah was run out for 98 while attempting a risky second run, missing out on a well-deserved century. Afghanistan's balanced chase and Bangladesh's middle-order collapse gave the visitors a series win.