Bangladesh all-rounder Mehedi Hasan Miraz was a delighted man after inspiring the Tigers to a six-wicket victory over Afghanistan in their 2023 Cricket World Cup opener in Dharamshala.
Player of the match Miraz first bagged three wickets conceding just 25 runs in his nine overs, including three maidens, as the Afghans were dismissed for 156 in 37.2 overs after being asked to bat first.
The 25-year old then posted his third One Day International half-century to guide the chase alongside Nazmul Hossain Shanto, who was unbeaten on 59.
“It's a great moment for me. I did a lot of hard work in the past. The team management deserves credit. I was a little bit cautious in my mind early on while bowling but the captain (Shakib al Hasan) told me to bowl at the right areas and told me to be consistent and that gave me confidence so credit goes to the captain,” said Miraz after the game.
“I go for ball by ball (while batting). The wicket was turning a little bit but I tried to stay (at the crease). I always play at No 8 so it was a great opportunity to bat in the top-order. I always have the hungriness so definitely it's a great moment for me to perform.”
