The only Test match between Afghanistan and Bangladesh at Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi ended in a draw, showcasing Afghanistan’s resilience. Chasing a daunting target of 479 runs, Afghanistan’s batsmen held firm in the fourth innings, occupying the crease for over 142 overs to snatch a historic draw from the jaws of defeat.
Day Five: Afghanistan’s Marathon Batting Effort
Afghanistan resumed their second innings at 132/3 on the final day, facing a seemingly impossible task to save the match. Sedikullah Atal anchored the innings by building crucial partnerships with Ikram Alikhil and captain Hashmatullah Shahidi. Despite Shahidi leaving injured after being hit by a throw, he returned briefly to support the fightback.
Afghanistan reached 203/4 by lunch and 265/6 at the tea break with Atal unbeaten on 105. His measured innings consisted of 111 runs off 332 balls, laying the foundation for the team’s survival in this gripping contest.
The Dramatic Final Session
When Atal was dismissed early in the third session, Bangladesh were just three wickets away from clinching victory. However, Afghanistan’s tail-enders showed remarkable determination, frustrating the bowlers. Fast bowler Yamin Ahmadzai and spinner Qais Ahmad crafted an 8th wicket partnership lasting over 18 overs, adding 45 runs from 110 deliveries.
Throughout this period, Bangladesh dropped multiple catches and missed a straightforward run-out opportunity, increasing the pressure. Although Qais Ahmad eventually succumbed to cramp and was dismissed with 10 minutes remaining, Jiya-ur-Rahman took charge in the final overs.
Bangladesh could not claim the remaining two wickets, and the match concluded in a draw. Earlier in the game, Bangladesh posted 346 runs in their first innings, while Afghan batsmen were bundled out for 240, giving Bangladesh a 106-run lead.
In their second innings, Bangladesh declared at 372/7, setting Afghanistan a challenging chase of 479. Afghanistan’s grit and patience in playing out 142 overs in the last innings denied Bangladesh a much-needed win and highlighted the evolving spirit of Afghan cricket.
Afghanistan’s ability to hold steady under pressure speaks volumes about their progress in Test cricket. This draw will be remembered as a landmark moment for Afghanistan, preserving their pride and earning respect from cricketing peers.
Mohid Khan, senior sub-editor at TV9 Hindi Sports Desk, reported this match. With four years in journalism, he specializes in detailed cricket analysis and brings insights from his background covering multiple Indian news outlets. His expertise strengthens the coverage of this tightly contested Test in Abu Dhabi.
