Bangladesh’s left-handed prodigy Nasum Ahmed etched his name into the annals of the Asia Cup's history after playing a gutsy knock against India in the Super Four clash at the Premadasa stadium on Friday, September 15. With a stellar inning of 44 runs from 45 balls, comprising six fours and a six, he set a record for Bangladesh. This feat, achieved against India at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, crowns him for the highest individual score by a No.8 or lower batter for Bangladesh in Asia Cup ODIs.
This remarkable inning surpasses the previous record held by Mehidy Hasan Miraz from 2018, scored at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Back then, Miraz had delivered an impressive 42 runs from 50 balls. With his recent performance, Nasum now ranks sixth on the global list of highest scores by No.8 or lower batters in Asia Cup ODIs.
Cricket aficionados would recognize the top players who occupy the pinnacle of this list: Pakistan’s Sohail Tanvir with 59 runs against Hong Kong (2008), Afghanistan’s Rashid Khan scoring 57 not out versus Bangladesh (2018 in Abu Dhabi), UAE's Mohammad Tauqir with 55 against India (2004 in Dambulla), Afghanistan's Samiullah Shenwari’s 50 against India (2014 in Mirpur), Nepal's Sompal Kami with 48 against India (2023 in Pallekele), and Pakistan's Sarfaraz Ahmed's 46 not out against Bangladesh (2012 in Mirpur).
The context of Nasum’s feat becomes more prominent when one considers the match situation. Bangladesh was in a tight spot, with the scoreboard reading a worrying 161/6 in 34.1 overs when Nasum walked in. What transpired was a commendable fightback. Nasum first crafted a 32-run partnership with Towhid Hridoy. Following this, he collaborated with Mahedi Hasan for a crucial 45-run stand, bolstering Bangladesh’s position.
For those familiar with Nasum’s capabilities, this innings wasn't a complete surprise. His prowess with the bat has been demonstrated in the first-class cricket arena, where he boasts a top score of 85. Nasum Ahmed’s recent achievement reaffirms his potential and offers a glimpse into the bright future of Bangladesh cricket.
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