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. 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.Atal’s marathon knock featured nine boundaries and three sixes. He brought up his maiden Test century in style, pulling Hasan Mahmud for a boundary before removing his helmet and bowing down in celebration as his teammates applauded the landmark achievement.
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.The opener found further support from Hashmatullah Shahidi, who made 36, and wicketkeeper-batter Ikram Alikhil, who contributed 33. Their efforts helped Afghanistan resist Bangladesh’s bowling attack and stretch the contest deep into the final day.Atal eventually departed for 111 after facing 332 balls. Taijul Islam ended the historic innings by inducing an edge that was caught by Tanzid Hasan at short leg. Atal reviewed the decision, but the UltraEdge confirmed a faint contact, bringing his marathon effort to an end at 281/7.
Qais Ahmad helps Afghanistan secure memorable draw
Despite Atal’s departure, Afghanistan’s lower order refused to give in. Qais Ahmad played a crucial unbeaten knock of 49 off 80 deliveries, while Yamin Ahmadzai remained not out on 19 as the visitors batted through 142 overs in their second innings.Afghanistan eventually finished at 346/8, holding on for a draw after being set a target of 479. The result denied Bangladesh victory despite their strong position heading into the final day.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.Brief scores: Bangladesh 346 and 372/7 declared; Afghanistan 240 and 346/8. The one-off Test ended in a draw.
