Sports Desk:

Bangladesh Under-19 team made a winning start to their five-match youth ODI series against Afghanistan, sealing a five-run victory via the Duckworth–Lewis–Stern method in a light-affected finish at Bogura’s Shaheed Chandu Stadium on Tuesday.

Chasing 266, Bangladesh reached 231 for 4 after 46 overs when bad light forced an early end. With the host side narrowly ahead of the par score, the umpires declared Bangladesh the winners, giving them a 1-0 lead in the series.

The triumph was built on two standout performances — a maiden five-wicket haul from right-arm seamer Iqbal Hossain Emon and a composed first ODI century by top-order batter Kalam Siddiki.

Bangladesh wobbled early in the chase, losing both Zawad Abrar and skipper Azizul Hakim Tamim for just 15 runs. Kalam then rebuilt with Rifat Beg (26 off 30), adding 45 for the third wicket.

His decisive partnership, though, came with all-rounder Rizan Hossan as the duo added a match-defining 139 runs for the fourth wicket. Kalam reached three figures with 11 boundaries before departing for an excellent 101 off 119 balls.

Rizan continued confidently and remained unbeaten on 75 off 96 balls, striking two fours and three sixes. Wicketkeeper Md Abdullah was not out on 12 when play was stopped.

Earlier, Afghanistan posted 265 for 9 from their 50 overs after choosing to bat. Uzairullah Niazai produced a lone-handed masterclass — 140 not out off 137 balls with 16 fours and a six — but lacked meaningful partnerships at the other end.

Emon dismantled the visitors with figures of 5 for 57 from his 10 overs, including a crucial double-strike to break their opening stand. Rizan supported well with 2 for 54.

The teams will meet again at the same venue on Friday for the second match of the series as Bangladesh look to extend their lead.