Afghanistan all-rounder Azmatullah Omarzai played a standout role with both bat and ball to secure Afghanistan’s 2-1 ODI series victory over Bangladesh.

Sharing his thoughts, Omarzai stated, “I want to thank the almighty. It was tough for me after two bad games. I was positive and was trying to hit the ball where I wanted to hit.” Omarzai credited Rahmanullah Gurbaz for his support at the crease, saying, “Gurbaz was there, so I was confident. Even if I miss a few balls, I did not care because he could cover (for me) anytime.”

Reflecting on his bowling, Omarzai explained his strategy on a slow wicket: “The ball was sticking. So, I tried to use my variations. I was speaking to Rashid and he told me to bowl a mix of deliveries.” He further noted the challenge of bowling in the death overs, a first for him in ODIs. “It was tough for me, because I have never bowled in the last few overs. It means a lot (to win this award). It is my first POTM award in ODIs, and I am really happy.”

Omarzai’s all-around performance, scoring 70* runs and taking 4 wickets for 37 runs, contributed significantly to Afghanistan’s 5-wicket win in the final ODI in Sharjah.