Twitter Reactions: Fazalhaq Farooqi, Ibrahim Zadran help Afghanistan take lead over Bangladesh in rain interrupted 1st ODI

Afghanistan emerged as the winners of the first ODI, as they defeated Bangladesh by 17 runs (DLS method) in a rain-affected game in Chattogram. Their collective and disciplined bowling performance restricted Bangladesh to a below-par total of 169/9 in 43 overs. Fazalhaq Farooqi led the attack with three crucial wickets, supported by Mujeeb ur Rehman and Rashid Khan who took two wickets each. 

In their chase, Afghanistan started strongly but lost two wickets before rain interrupted the game in the 22nd over, with the score at 83/2. The match was eventually called off due to persistent rain, and Afghanistan were declared the winners as they were in a comfortable position when the DLS method came into play. 

Multiple rain breaks disrupted the match and led to a reduction in overs for both teams. Afghanistan's openers, Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran, cautiously added 54 runs in 15.3 overs before Gurbaz was dismissed by Shanto for 22 off 45 balls. Taskin removed Rahmat Shah, caught at slip by Litton Das, while Ibrahim remained unbeaten on 41 runs off 58 deliveries.

Afghanistan's victory was built upon a strong bowling display. Farooqi showcased his excellent form from the previous ODI series, finishing with figures of 3/24. The spin trio of Rashid Khan, Mohammad Nabi, and Mujeeb Ur Rahman created pressure on Bangladesh, collectively taking five wickets for 69 runs in 24 overs.

Bangladesh struggled to establish partnerships and collapsed from 103/3 to 169/9 in their allotted overs. Despite rain interruptions, the ground staff at Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium worked tirelessly to ensure play could resume whenever possible, and the crowd displayed remarkable support despite adverse weather conditions.

This victory highlights Afghanistan's strong bowling unit and emphasizes the importance of adapting to challenging circumstances. Both teams now look forward to the next match in the series, with Bangladesh aiming to bounce back and level the contest, while Afghanistan seek to maintain their winning momentum.