Afghanistan staged a brilliant fightback at the Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi after conceding a 106-run first-innings lead. Bangladesh scored 372-7 in their second innings, setting an improbable fourth-innings target for Afghanistan.

Afghanistan were in trouble at 28-2 before vital knocks from opener Sediqullah Atal (111) and Rahmat Shah (51) steadied the innings. They were 202-3 after 77 overs at one stage, but a collapse saw them slide to 281-7. Afghanistan lost their eighth wicket with seven overs remaining when Qais Ahmad and Zia-ur-Rehman Akbar came together.

Cramps, laughter and Naib flashbacks

Ten minutes remained before stumps when Taijul Islam came to bowl the second ball of the 140th over. No.9 Qais, on 37 off 68 balls, lunged forward to defend a fuller delivery. His back knee touched the ground before he clutched his left hamstring in apparent pain. He got back to his feet limping before calling for the physio.

Qais pulling Gulbadin gimmick with 10 mins left 😂😂 https://t.co/95HlzqZqYs

— T20 Tracker (@t20tracker) October 13, 2026

Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto was not pleased with the apparent antics, while cricket watchers were reminded of Naib’s actions during the 2024 T20 World Cup.

During that match, Naib, stationed at first slip, appeared to develop cramps just as Bangladesh fell behind the DLS par score with rain in the air during a crucial contest that would determine Afghanistan’s semi-final spot. Afghanistan head coach Jonathan Trott had indicated to his players that they should slow the game down, with Naib hilariously acknowledging the message before going down in one of the most memorable moments on a cricket field.

Qais’ antics brought back memories of that incident two years ago, with commentator Ahmad Farhad Fidai laughing as he said: “Qais Ahmad does it again! This reminds me of Gulbadin Naib!”

“Oh boy, not again … we can understand from here what’s going on!”

“Brilliant, absolutely brilliant. Well done. I hope he’s okay.”

Smiles were also visible in the Afghanistan camp. Bangladesh wicketkeeper Litton Das could not help being amused either, seemingly aware of what was unfolding.

Qais’ efforts ultimately paid off as Afghanistan escaped with a draw, with the batter remaining unbeaten on 49 off 80 balls.

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