In addition to an exciting cricket match, the clash between Bangladesh’s Hasan Mahmud and Afghanistan’s Rahmat Shah during a pivotal throw at the batter’s end became a focal point of viewer interest.
On Sunday, Bangladesh made a remarkable comeback in the 2023 Asia Cup, securing an 89-run victory against Afghanistan in Lahore. Under the captaincy of Shakib al Hasan, they posted a commanding total of 334/5 in 50 overs, fueled by centuries from Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Najmul Hossain Shanto. Afghanistan, in response, was dismissed for 245 in the 45th over, thanks to a combined effort from Taskin Ahmed (4/44) and Shoriful Islam (3/36), who claimed 7 wickets.
Beyond the riveting cricket match, the altercation between Bangladesh’s Hasan Mahmud and Afghanistan’s Rahmat Shah seized the audience’s focus. This incident unfolded during the 7th over of Afghanistan’s chase when Mahmud, a 23-year-old pacer, delivered a full-length ball that Shah drove back to him. Mahmud swiftly retrieved the ball and launched it towards the batter’s end, narrowly missing Shah. This unexpected move left Shah visibly angered by Mahmud’s actions.
The incident’s video quickly spread across social media, showing Rahmat Shah approaching Hasan Mahmud while exchanging words. However, Mahmud chose to avoid confrontation and continued to his run-up without apologizing.
Afghanistan’s pursuit of their highest ODI target faced an early setback when Shoriful Islam dismissed Rahmanullah Gurbaz for just one run in the second over. Ibrahim Zadran, the top scorer with 75, initially steadied the innings with partnerships of 78 and 52 with Rahmat Shah and Hashmatullah Shahidi, respectively. However, Hasan Mahmud’s stunning diving catch to remove Zadran shifted the momentum in Bangladesh’s favor. Despite contributions from Shahidi and Najibullah Zadran, Afghanistan’s hopes dwindled. Rashid Khan’s late effort was insufficient as they fell short, leaving Bangladesh second in Group B and Afghanistan needing a win against Sri Lanka to progress.
Last Updated on September 4, 2023
Senior Sports Copywriter
