Shakib strikes as Tigers keep things tight early

Defending a low total, Bangladesh kept Afghanistan under pressure early in the innings in their Asia Cup group stage game at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium today. 

In chase of a 128-run target, Afghanistan scored 35 for 1 after seven overs. 

Playing his 100th T20I, Bangladesh skipper Shakib Al Hasan struck early. The all-rounder removed Afghanistan opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz in the fifth over. Gurbaz, in an attempt to score some quick runs, danced down the track to hit Shakib over the infield. However, the wily Shakib read the batter's movement early and drew his delivery a bit shorter, deceiving the right-hander who was stumped by Mushfiqur Rahim. 

Gurbaz could have seen his innings earlier had Mahmudullah Riyad not dropped his catch at long on off a Shakib delivery in the third over of the game. 

Earlier, following a disappointing display, Bangladesh posted a low 127-run total.