In the opening ODI of the three-match series held in Sharjah, Afghanistan clinched a decisive 92-run victory over Bangladesh. Afghanistan's AM Ghazanfar stole the spotlight with his remarkable 6-wicket haul for just 26 runs, propelling Afghanistan to bowl out Bangladesh for 143 in 34.3 overs. Afghanistan had earlier set a target of 236, thanks in large part to Mohammad Nabi's 84 off 79 balls.

Reflecting on the defeat, Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto emphasized Bangladesh's strong start with the ball but acknowledged that they couldn’t maintain control in the middle overs, where Nabi's counterattack became a turning point. "We started very well. For 15-20 overs, we bowled really well," Shanto said, underscoring Bangladesh’s effective start with the ball. However, Afghanistan soon stabilized their innings, and it was Mohammad Nabi who made the critical difference. "In the middle, we could not execute. Nabi batted brilliantly."

Shanto also clarified that he believed the team’s bowling approach did not require additional aggression, as Afghanistan’s spin attack on the low-bounce pitch made batting particularly challenging for Bangladesh’s lineup. "I didn't think we needed to attack more (with the ball). The wicket had low bounce, and we had to stick to our plans," Shanto stated.

Reflecting on his own role in the innings, Shanto noted his regret in getting dismissed while set at the crease, which he believes was a pivotal moment. "My wicket made the difference in today's game," he admitted. "I was the set batter, and after that Miraz, even Soumya, we scored 30-40s. In these conditions, you have to bat longer."

He also acknowledged the strength of Afghanistan’s bowling, particularly their spinners. "Afghanistan always have mystery spinners; everyone bowled really well, and he (Ghazanfar) bowled really well," Shanto said, crediting the Afghan bowling unit that ultimately restricted Bangladesh to 143 in 34.3 overs.

Despite the outcome, Shanto remains optimistic, stating, "The preparation was brilliant but today was not our day. Hopefully, we can come back strongly in the next game."

With Afghanistan now leading the series 1-0, Bangladesh will look to learn from this loss as they head into the second ODI, set to be a crucial match in their quest to level the series.