Why BAN Lost to AFG in the 3rd ODI of Afghanistan v Bangladesh 2025: 3 Key Reasons Behind the Defeat

Bangladesh’s nightmare in Abu Dhabi culminated in the third ODI, where they lost by 200 runs in a way that left the fans scratching their heads in bewilderment. Chasing a formidable-looking 294, Bangladesh began with an air of promise as Saif Hassan threatened to make a 50, but what appeared to be the start of a promising innings turned into chaos with wickets tumbling, frustration, and unanswered questions. Thus, the shambled chase that was started with a faint flicker of hope became a sort of horror show, which revealed the weak places in Bangladesh’s game.

Batting Collapse Under Pressure

The glaring first reason for the defeat is Bangladesh’s failure to create any significant partnerships. From Mohammad Naim’s edge in the early overs to Najmul Hossain Shanto chopping one on to his stumps, the dismissal of Bangladesh batters came with regularity and with the manner of a blinking eye. After 35 runs for the first wicket, the top and middle order of the side crumbled to 70 for 5 in 19 overs. The only sparkling performance was that of Saif Hassan, who made 43 runs, if that performance could be described as sparkling, but it did not help to stabilise affairs. Poor shot selection, hesitations, and mistimed deliveries allowed both Bilal Sami and Rashid Khan to penetrate every soft spot presented. It was not a batting collapse this but, but rather a total abject surrender, which made the chase of 294 runs fruitless within half the time available.

Afghanistan’s Game-Changing Performances

The Afghan players took control of the match, dominating it heavily in their favour. Bilal Sami’s five wickets for 33 runs represented a triumph of pace, line, and movement, punishing every uncertain foot movement and poor choice of stroke. Rashid Khan had previously removed key top-order batsmen, but the bowling of Sami annihilated the middle and lower order. Zadran and Rahmanullah Gurbaz provided a solid base on the batting side, while Mohammad Nabi’s 62 off 62 deliveries lifted the run rate. The efforts of Bangladesh in taking the occasional wicket were not enough to hinder the Afghans, who maintained a fairly healthy run rate of 5.86 per over, and their supremacy never appeared to be in doubt.

Fielding Errors and Situational Mismanagement

There were so many problems for the Bangladesh squad, a combination of external conditions and mental errors. They were run out, involved in poor running between the wickets and strike rotation, and therefore could not form partnerships. A run-out for Towhid Hridoy, a golden duck for Shamim Hossain, and the late dismissal of Tanvir Islam were symptomatic of a side not fit to deal with the pressures of the game. Afghanistan was striking in their fielding, making full use of every opportunity. There was bounce and carry in the pitch, but Bangladesh were deficient in their reading, and the over-reliance on a few players was both contributory to the problem. Errors multiplied, and the run chase became out of control.

In the end, what should have been a competitive game turned into a total dissembling. The disciplined bowling, firepower, and smartness in Afghanistan’s bowling unit had uncovered Bangladesh’s weaknesses mercilessly. Losing by 200 runs is not just a defeat; it is a statement that Bangladesh must take note of and analyse carefully. 

FAQs

1: Why did Bangladesh lose by such a huge margin?

A combination of batting collapse, brilliant Afghanistan bowling, and fielding errors led to the 200-run defeat.

2: Who was the standout performer for Afghanistan?

Bilal Sami dominated with a 5-wicket haul, turning the match decisively in Afghanistan’s favor.

3: Did any Bangladesh player show resistance?

Saif Hassan’s 43 runs were the only noteworthy effort, but it was insufficient to salvage the innings.

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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