Omarzai powers Afghani win over Bangladesh: 1st ODI (Abu Dhabi)

Azmatullah Omarzai had a fine allround showing as Afghanistan defeated Bangladesh by five wickets in the first ODI of the 2025 series at Abu Dhabi.

Batting first, Bangladesh were bowled out for 221 in 48.5 overs, with Mehidy Hasan Miraz (60 off 87) and Towhid Hridoy (56 off 85) providing the main resistance. Rashid Khan (3 for 38) and Azmatullah Omarzai (3 for 40) led the Afghan bowling effort, tightening control in the middle overs.

In reply, Afghanistan’s chase was steady, anchored by Azmatullah Omarzai’s crucial all-round performance, scoring 40 off 44 balls after his three-wicket haul. Skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi added a composed 33, while Mohammad Nabi’s unbeaten cameo sealed victory with 17 balls remaining. Afghanistan finished at 226 for 5 in 47.1 overs, taking a 1–0 lead in the series. Omarzai deservedly named Player of the Match.

Afghanistan 227 for 5 (Gurbaz 50, Rahmat 50, Tanzim 3-31) beat Bangladesh 221 (Mehidy 60, Hridoy 56, Rashid 3-38) by five wickets.

Oct 2025