by
Sports, May 29, 2025 : Bangladesh faced a 37-run defeat against Pakistan in the first match of a three-match T20I series at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium. After losing their previous series against the United Arab Emirates, the Tigers struggled to kick off their new campaign on a positive note.
Chasing a daunting target of 202 runs, Bangladesh managed only 164 runs, folding before the completion of their 20 overs. Pakistan’s pacer Hasan Ali was the standout performer, claiming a five-wicket haul that dismantled the Tigers’ batting lineup. Despite contributions from Liton Das (48), Zaker Ali Anik (36), and Tanzid Tamim (31), Bangladesh’s batting effort fell short of the aggressive approach needed to chase the total.
Opener Parvez Emon was dismissed for just 4 runs, while Towhid Hridoy, despite settling at the crease, failed to deliver a T20-style innings. Shamim Patowari and Rishad Hossain also struggled to make an impact, leaving Bangladesh short of the target.
Earlier, Pakistan posted a formidable 201/7 in their 20 overs after being asked to bat first. Salman Ali Agha led the way with a brisk 56 off 34 balls, supported by Hasan Nawaz’s 54 off 32 balls and a late blitz from Shadab Khan. Bangladesh’s bowlers started strongly, with Shoriful Islam dismissing both Pakistan openers within the first 5 runs.
However, Salman and Nawaz’s 48-run third-wicket partnership steadied the innings, helping Pakistan surpass the 200-run mark. Shoriful Islam was the pick of the bowlers for Bangladesh, finishing with 2 wickets, while Rishad Hossain, Sheikh Mehedi, Shamim Patowari, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, and Hasan Mahmud claimed one wicket each.
The second match of the series offers Bangladesh a chance to bounce back as they look to level the series against a confident Pakistan side.
AI/MR
