Bangladesh put on a commanding performance, securing an emphatic 89-run victory against Afghanistan in their second Asia Cup encounter, held at Lahore. This resounding win breathes new life into Bangladesh's aspirations of advancing to the Super Fours stage of the tournament.

Taskin Ahmed, the right-arm pacer, emerged as the star of the match, claiming four crucial wickets while conceding 44 runs. Shoriful Islam contributed significantly with three wickets of his own, restricting Afghanistan to a total of 245 runs in pursuit of Bangladesh's formidable 335-run target.

Also read: Mehidy and Shanto Guide Bangladesh to a Record Total against Afghanistan

Despite good efforts by Afghanistan's Ibrahim Zadran, who notched up an impressive 75, and Hashmatullah Shahidi, who blazed his way to 51, they struggled to maintain their momentum as wickets fell at pivotal junctures, intensifying the challenge against Bangladesh's quality bowling attack, which showcased a diverse array of strategies.

Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Afghanistan's main hope for a successful chase, was dismissed early for a mere one run. Although Afghanistan managed to recover from this initial setback, the consistent loss of wickets throughout their innings ultimately proved costly, placing them in a precarious position ahead of their crucial encounter against Sri Lanka. A defeat in this forthcoming match would spell elimination from the tournament for Afghanistan.

Also read: Mehidy, Shanto smash centuries putting Afghans to the sword

Earlier in the day, Bangladesh delivered an outstanding batting performance, amassing a commanding total of 334 runs, their highest-ever ODI score against Afghanistan. This remarkable achievement was powered by stellar centuries from Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Najmul Hossain Shanto.

Mehidy Hasan Miraz, who opened the innings in this fixture, replaced Tanzid Hasan Tamim, who had endured a disappointing debut performance in the team's first match. Despite having additional openers at their disposal, the team management entrusted Mehidy with the responsibility, given his prior experience in this role. He justified their faith with a splendid century.

Teaming up with Mohammad Naim, Mehidy orchestrated a solid 60-run opening partnership, laying a strong foundation for the Tigers. Subsequently, his partnership with Najmul Hossain Shanto guided Bangladesh to a commanding total. Contributions from Mushfiqur Rahim and Shakib Al Hasan further bolstered Bangladesh's innings, ultimately propelling them to a substantial score.

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Bangladesh had entered this contest with a clear objective of securing victory, and they achieved it in a resounding manner. However, this win does not guarantee their place in the next phase of the Asia Cup. The Tigers must now closely monitor the outcome of the upcoming group match between Sri Lanka and Afghanistan, as it will play a pivotal role in determining their fate in the tournament.