Photo via Wisden

'Chaos' Ahmad fakes cramp in madcap Test match-saver

Afghanistan rallied from a 106‑run deficit at the Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi, with opener Sediqullah Atal’s century (111) and Rahmat Shah’s half‑century (51) anchoring a second‑innings total that set Bangladesh a daunting chase. After reaching 202‑3, the Afghan side slipped to 281‑7, leaving them needing a partnership for the final wickets as the match entered its closing stages.

With ten minutes left, Qais Ahmad, on 37, appeared to suffer a hamstring cramp while defending a delivery, limped to the ground and called for the physio, prompting laughter and reminders of Gulbadin Naib’s similar episode in 2024. Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto expressed displeasure, but the Afghan camp remained amused as Ahmad recovered and went on to finish unbeaten on 49, helping Afghanistan secure a draw.

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