Mon Nov 11 15:30:00 UTC 2024: ## Afghanistan Clinches Series Against Bangladesh With Thrilling Five-Wicket Win
**Sharjah, UAE:** Afghanistan sealed a thrilling 3-0 series victory over Bangladesh in the third and final ODI at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Sunday. The Afghans chased down a 245-run target with 10 balls to spare, thanks to a match-winning century from Rahmanullah Gurbaz and a crucial knock from Azmatullah Omarzai.
Gurbaz smashed his eighth ODI century, reaching 101 off 120 balls, including seven sixes and five fours. Omarzai, who also claimed four wickets with the ball, played a gritty innings of 70 runs off 77 deliveries, including three fours and five sixes. The duo put on a crucial 100-run stand for the fourth wicket after Afghanistan were reduced to 84-3 in the 21st over.
Earlier, Bangladesh, led by a magnificent 98-run knock from Mahmudullah Riyad, managed to post 244 for 8. Riyad, who missed out on his fifth ODI century, smashed seven fours and three sixes in his innings. However, a late collapse saw Bangladesh lose three wickets in three overs after a strong start.
Azmatullah Omarzai was the pick of the bowlers for Afghanistan, taking 4 wickets for 37 runs, while Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi claimed one each.
Omarzai was named the Player of the Match for his exceptional all-round performance, while Nabi won the Player of the Series award. This is Afghanistan’s third consecutive ODI series win, having previously defeated Ireland and South Africa.
Bangladesh will be disappointed with their performance in the series, especially after losing the first two games. They will be looking to regroup and improve in their upcoming matches.
First Piper 