In a thrilling opener to the three-match T20I series, Bangladesh triumphed over Pakistan, securing victory by an emphatic 7 wickets. The match, held at the bustling Dhaka stadium, saw Bangladesh chasing a modest target of 111 runs.
They reached this figure swiftly in just 15.3 overs while losing only three wickets. The young and dynamic Parvez Hossain Emon dazzled with an unbeaten 56 runs, steering his team to a comfortable win.
Earlier, in the vibrant city of Dhaka, Bangladesh’s captain, Liton Das, strategically opted to field first after winning the toss. This decision proved fruitful as Pakistan’s batting lineup crumbled under the relentless pressure from Bangladesh’s bowlers, collapsing for a mere 110 runs in 19.3 overs. Fakhar Zaman emerged as Pakistan’s top scorer, showcasing his skill with a well-fought 44 runs.
Pakistan began their innings with openers Fakhar Zaman and the young Saim Ayub. Unfortunately for Pakistan, Saim was dismissed for just 6 runs, setting off a domino effect of quick dismissals that left their batting order in disarray. Notable quick exits included Mohammad Haris (4), captain Salman Ali Agha (3), and Hassan Nawaz (0).
Further contributions from the tail-enders were minimal – Mohammad Nawaz added 3 runs, Khushdil Shah chipped in with 17, Abbas Afridi managed 22, and Faheem Ashraf scored 5. Salman Mirza also failed to score before getting out.
The Bangladeshi bowlers put up an outstanding performance with Taskin Ahmed leading the charge with 3 wickets. Mustafizur Rahman took 2 wickets, with Tanzim Hasan and Mehidy Hasan each contributing with one wicket. The fielders also shone brightly, orchestrating the run-outs of three Pakistani batsmen.