Faisal century powers Afghanistan to 283/7 against Bangladesh

A superb century from Faisal Shinozada propelled Afghanistan to a challenging total of 283 for 7 against Bangladesh in their opening match of the Under-19 Asia Cup at the ICC Academy Ground in Dubai on Saturday.

After winning the toss, Afghanistan’s youngsters made full use of the conditions to post a formidable score in their allotted 50 overs. Faisal led the charge with a polished 103 off 94 balls, striking eight fours and four sixes to anchor the innings.

Afghanistan lost opener Khalid Ahmadzai early for three with the score on 16, dismissed by Saad Islam. Faisal then steadied the innings with Osman Sadat, adding 66 runs for the second wicket. Sadat was bowled by Samiun Basir after making 34.

Faisal went on to build a crucial 93-run partnership with Uzairullah Niazai, keeping the scoreboard ticking and putting Bangladesh under pressure. Niazai contributed 44, while Azizullah Miyakhil (38) and Osman Sadat (34) also chipped in with valuable runs.

Just when Afghanistan looked set for an even bigger total, Bangladesh staged a brief fightback by claiming four wickets for 28 runs, slowing the momentum in the middle overs. Faisal eventually fell to Iqbal Hossain Emon after completing his century, and several Afghan batters departed in quick succession, raising doubts over whether they could cross the 280 mark.

However, the Afghan lower order ensured a strong finish. Azizullah Miyakhil and Abdul Aziz launched a late assault, adding quick runs at the death. Abdul Aziz played a brisk cameo of 26 off just 16 balls, as Afghanistan plundered 58 runs from the final 28 deliveries to push the total to 283.

For Bangladesh, Iqbal Hossain Emon and Shahriar Ahmed picked up two wickets each, while Saad Islam, Samiun Basir and Rizan Hossan claimed one apiece.