AFG vs BAN: Rashid Khan Makes History with 200th ODI Wicket, Afghanistan Takes 1-0 Lead

Afghanistan started their ODI series against Bangladesh in spectacular fashion, claiming victory in the first match and taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. The match, played in Abu Dhabi on October 8, saw Afghanistan chasing down Bangladesh’s total of 221 with 17 balls to spare, thanks to strong performances from Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Rahmat Shah, and all-rounder Azmatullah Omarzai.

Rashid Khan’s Historic ODI Double Century of Wickets
The highlight of the match was Rashid Khan achieving a landmark in his ODI career — his 200th wicket. Rashid, already regarded as one of the best bowlers in world cricket, reached this milestone in his 107th innings across 115 ODI matches. In the first ODI against Bangladesh, he took 3 wickets for 38 runs in 10 overs, taking his career total from 199 to 202 wickets. Rashid Khan became the first Afghan cricketer to reach 200 wickets in ODIs, marking a historic achievement for both him and Afghanistan cricket.

Afghanistan’s Chase and Victory
Batting first, Bangladesh were bowled out for 221 in 48.5 overs, with captain Mehidy Hasan top-scoring with 60 and Tauhid Hiday adding 56. Rashid Khan and Azmatullah Omarzai claimed three wickets each to restrict Bangladesh to a modest total.

Chasing 222, Afghanistan got strong starts from opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz, who scored 50, and Rahmat Shah, who also made 50. Azmatullah Omarzai starred with the bat as well, scoring 40 off 44 balls, complementing his bowling performance. Afghanistan reached the target comfortably with 17 balls remaining. Azmatullah Omarzai was named Player of the Match for his all-round brilliance.