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Following a narrow win in the first T20I, Bangladesh will be gunning to clinch the two-match series against Afghanistan in the forthcoming contest. The two sides will cross swords in the second T20I at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium on Sunday, July 16.

Speaking about the first T20I, veteran batter Mohammad Nabi’s unbeaten 54 runs coupled with Azmatullah Omarzai’s 33 helped Afghanistan post 154 runs in their 20 overs. However, it was Towhid Hridoy’s breezy 32-ball 47* along with Shamim Hossain’s 33 off 25 which helped Bangladesh stand on top in the first T20I.

The freakish encounter saw Bangladesh totter just when the equation came down to two runs required off the final five deliveries. With nearly half their side still left to bat, Afghanistan’s Karim Janat landed three vital blows on the trot, producing a hat-trick out of nowhere. However, Shoriful Islam showed nerves of steel and slammed a four with a ball to go to win it for his side. 

Speaking about the forthcoming match, Bangladesh will likely back the same set-up as will Afghanistan and the latter will hope to do one better on Sunday. The deck at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium has an inclination for the batters and they will look to make the most from the conditions. However, spinners could play an important role in getting the breakthroughs and restricting the rival side from going overboard. A competitive game much like the last one could be on the cards.

The Rashid Khan-led Afghanistan have a crucial match in hand and it remains to be seen if they can push through and get back on level terms with a result in their favour. Meanwhile, the home side will look to keep their momentum intact and win the T20I series, 2-0.