Sediqullah Atal scripts history (Image: X/ @ACBofficials)
Qais Ahmad helps Afghanistan secure memorable draw
The left-handed batter became the first Afghanistan cricketer to score a Test hundred in the fourth innings, smashing 111 off 332 deliveries to deny Bangladesh victory despite a daunting target of 479 runs. Bangladesh had scored 346 in their first innings before bowling Afghanistan out for 240, gaining a 106-run lead. They then declared their second innings at 372/7, powered by Litton Das’s 102 and contributions from Najmul Hossain Shanto and Mushfiqur Rahim, to set Afghanistan a challenging target.
Atal’s historic century and the resistance from Afghanistan’s lower order ensured the one-off Test ended in a draw, turning what looked like a Bangladesh victory into a memorable fightback for the visitors. Litton Das was named Player of the Match for his century and contributions across the game. Sediqullah Atal produced a historic fourth-innings century to help Afghanistan secure a draw against Bangladesh in the one-off Test in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday.
Atal’s marathon innings keeps Afghanistan alive
Afghanistan resumed the final day at 132/3, still needing 347 runs to win. Atal continued to anchor the innings after sharing a crucial partnership with captain Rahmat Shah, who scored 51 off 124 balls.