Rahmat Shah's Unbeaten 84 Keeps Afghanistan Fighting Against Bangladesh

Afghanistan captain Rahmat Shah delivered a crucial batting performance against Bangladesh in the one-off Test in Abu Dhabi on October 10, 2026. His unbeaten 84 helped Afghanistan reach 211 for four at the end of the second day, keeping his team in contention after Bangladesh posted a first-innings total of 346.

Bangladesh had resumed the day at 317 for eight before being bowled out for 346 at the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium. Afghanistan faced pressure early in their reply but gradually recovered through important contributions from their middle order, preventing Bangladesh from establishing a stronger advantage.

Rahmat remained unbeaten on 84 from 186 balls, striking eight fours and a six. Opener Abdul Malik also contributed with 62 runs, recording his maiden Test half-century. Later, Rahmat and wicketkeeper-batter Ikram Alikhil added an unbeaten 72-run partnership for the fifth wicket, strengthening Afghanistan's position by stumps.

At the close of play on Day 2, Afghanistan were still 135 runs behind Bangladesh's first-innings score, with six wickets remaining. Rahmat's patient innings and the partnership with Alikhil gave Afghanistan an opportunity to reduce the deficit further when play resumed, while Bangladesh continued to seek a breakthrough.