Afghanistan U19 Beat Bangladesh by 43 Runs to Stay Alive in Series

Afghanistan’s Under-19 side fought back from two series defeats to beat Bangladesh by 43 runs in Oman. A collapse from 157 for two to 194 all out gave Afghanistan a chance to level the four-match Youth ODI series.

21 October 2026

AL AMERAT, OMAN | BY NIAZ SHINWARI

Afghanistan’s Under-19 cricket team kept the four-match Youth ODI series against Bangladesh alive on Wednesday, defending 237 to secure a 43-run victory at the Al Amerat Cricket Ground in Oman.

The result followed two defeats in the opening matches and prevented Bangladesh from sealing the series with a game remaining.

Afghanistan’s innings was built around two substantial contributions. Subhan Zakhail scored 81 from 95 deliveries, while Shah Faisal Rahimi made 80 from 111 balls. Their 105-run partnership for the fourth wicket helped Afghanistan recover from an uncertain start.

The pair put Afghanistan in a position to post a more imposing total, but Bangladesh fought back through Al Amin Hossain, who took six wickets for 60 runs.

Afghanistan were eventually dismissed for 237 from their allotted 50 overs. Captain Sohail Khan contributed 24 runs.

Bangladesh’s pursuit of 238 initially appeared well organised. Abdullah Al Muhi struck 61 and Kawser Ahmed added 64, bringing their side into a position from which victory looked achievable.

At 157 for two, Bangladesh required another 81 runs with eight wickets in hand.

The contest then changed sharply.

Afghanistan’s bowlers broke through the middle order, and Bangladesh lost four wickets without adding a run, slipping to 157 for six.

Imran Mohammadi finished with three wickets for 45 runs. Lutfullah Mohammadi delivered an economical spell of two for 23 from nine overs, while Sohail Khan took two for 43.

Mohammad Ali Barakzai and Abidullah Nadarjan claimed one wicket each.

Bangladesh’s last eight wickets fell for just 37 runs, and the innings ended at 194 in 38.2 overs.

The result was especially significant because Afghanistan had already lost the opening two matches, including the second through a Super Over.

Wednesday’s victory reduced Bangladesh’s series lead to 2–1, leaving Afghanistan with an opportunity to draw the four-match contest in Friday’s final Youth ODI.

Subhan Zakhail was named Player of the Match for his 81-run innings.

For Afghanistan’s emerging players, the victory offered more than an improved series scoreline. Their ability to regain control after Bangladesh had established a strong position was the decisive feature of the match.

The final Youth ODI is scheduled for Friday, 23 October, at the same venue in Oman.

Source: Afghanistan Cricket Board; official match scorecard.

Image caption: Afghanistan’s Under-19 cricketers during the Youth ODI series against Bangladesh in Oman.

Image credit: Source and reuse permission to be confirmed before publication.