In a striking performance that marked a new chapter in Afghanistan cricket, 18-year-old spinner Allah Ghazanfar has taken the spotlight with his outstanding six-wicket haul against Bangladesh, driving his team to a commanding 92-run win in the first ODI held in Sharjah. With an impressive 6 for 26 in just 6.3 overs, Ghazanfar turned Bangladesh’s chase of 236 into a collapse from 132/3 to 143 all out, setting a new record in Afghanistan-Bangladesh ODI history by surpassing Shakib Al Hasan’s 5-29 from the 2019 World Cup.
Ghazanfar’s rise to fame didn’t happen overnight. His journey began with ambitions as a fast bowler, but under the mentorship of former Afghanistan captain Dawlat Ahmadzai, he transitioned into a mystery spinner—a decision that would later yield remarkable results. His talent first gained attention during the 2024 U-19 World Cup, where he picked up eight wickets in four matches. This stellar showing earned him a call-up to Afghanistan’s senior squad, where he debuted in ODIs against Ireland.
His exceptional skills carried over to the Emerging Asia Cup, where he was instrumental in Afghanistan’s victory over Sri Lanka A in the final, clinching the Player of the Match award. His growing reputation even caught the eye of the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the IPL, who brought him in as a replacement for Mujeeb Ur Rahman. Though he didn’t play in any IPL matches, his presence in the title-winning squad showcased his potential on a global stage.
Afghanistan’s captain, Hashmatullah Shahidi, expressed confidence in the young talent, highlighting his impressive control and spin variety. “He is a special talent with a bright future. He bowled well in the first spell, but there was that no-ball (laughs). I’m thrilled with the options we have on the bench,” Shahidi shared, acknowledging Ghazanfar’s game-changing abilities.
Bangladesh’s captain, Najmul Hossain, reflected on his team’s collapse, admitting, “I think my wicket turned the match. I was the set batsman, so my dismissal put us in a tough spot. But credit goes to Afghanistan’s spinners for their remarkable performance.”
As Ghazanfar’s career continues to rise, he embodies Afghanistan’s growing cricketing legacy. His historic feat not only brings new hope to Afghan fans but also signals that this young spinner could be a force to watch on the global stage in the years ahead.
