The cricketing rivalry between Afghanistan and Bangladesh has been one of the most intriguing stories in recent years. Both teams have made significant strides in international cricket, and their encounters have often been closely contested. Here’s a timeline of their key matches and moments:
Early Years
- 2000s: Both teams were emerging from minnow status. Afghanistan, in particular, made rapid progress with the support of the ICC.
- 2009 ICC World Twenty20: Afghanistan’s first major tournament appearance saw them win a match against South Africa.
Rise of Afghanistan
- 2014 ICC World T20: Afghanistan continued their upward trajectory, reaching the quarter-finals.
- 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup: Both teams participated, with Afghanistan recording notable wins.
- 2016 Bilateral Series: Afghanistan toured Bangladesh for their first-ever ODI series against a Test-playing nation, winning 2-1.
Test Cricket Debut
- 2018: Afghanistan achieved Test status and played their inaugural Test against India.
- 2019: Afghanistan won their first Test match against Ireland, becoming the fourth team to win their first two Tests.
- 2019: Afghanistan defeated Bangladesh in their only Test match of the year.
Recent Encounters
- 2020s: The rivalry has continued to intensify, with both teams regularly facing each other in T20I and ODI series.
- 2022: Afghanistan won the Asia Cup Qualifier, defeating Bangladesh in the final.
- 2023: Both teams participated in the ICC Cricket World Cup, with Afghanistan reaching the Super 8 stage.
Key Moments and Players
- Rashid Khan: Afghanistan’s star leg-spinner has been a key figure in their success.
- Shakib Al Hasan: Bangladesh’s all-rounder has been a consistent performer for his team.
- Thrilling Matches: The encounters between these two teams have often been closely contested and full of excitement.
The rivalry between Afghanistan and Bangladesh continues to evolve, and it promises to be one of the most exciting in international cricket for years to come.
