Hasan Ali’s five-for helps Pakistan clinch 37-run victory over Bangladesh in T20 opener
Hasan Ali’s five-for turned the tide in Pakistan’s favor as they secured a 37-run win against Bangladesh in the opening T20 International at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore.
Match Overview
Pakistan, after opting to bat first, posted an impressive total of 201 for 7. The home side displayed a blend of aggression and stability, with several key players contributing to the total. Skipper Salman Ali Agha anchored the innings with a composed 56, Shadab Khan added a crucial 48, and Hasan Nawaz energized the middle overs with a brisk 44 from just 22 deliveries.
Despite early setbacks, including Fakhar Zaman scoring only 1 and Saim Ayub getting out for a duck, Pakistan managed to put together strong partnerships. Mohammad Haris added 31 runs to the total. Bangladesh’s bowling unit managed to take wickets at intervals, with Mehidy Hasan, Shoriful Islam, Rishad Hossain, and Hasan Mahmud each picking up one wicket.
Bangladesh’s Response
Chasing a challenging target of 202, Bangladesh’s innings faltered despite a promising start. Litton Das top-scored with a valiant 48, but lacked support from the middle order. Zakir Ali added 36 runs, and Tanzid Hasan contributed 31 before being dismissed by Hasan Ali.
The middle order couldn’t withstand the pressure, with Towhid Hridoy scoring 17 and Rishad Hossain dismissed cheaply by Shadab Khan. Bangladesh’s innings came to an end at 164 runs in 19.2 overs.
Pakistan’s Bowling Brilliance
The hero of the match was undoubtedly Hasan Ali, whose five-for dismantled Bangladesh’s batting lineup. His disciplined line and length earned him five wickets, making this spell a match-winning performance. Shadab Khan provided solid support with two wickets, while Khushdil Shah, Faheem Ashraf, and Salman Ali Agha each claimed a wicket.
Pakistan now leads the three-match T20 series 1-0 and will be looking to maintain momentum in the upcoming games. Click here for detailed stats and match reports.
Captains’ Remarks
At the toss, Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha emphasized the importance of setting a strong total and praised the depth of talent coming from the Pakistan Super League. “Every player delivered outstanding performances during the PSL. Our strategy is to play modern cricket,” he said.
Bangladesh captain Litton Das, reviewing his team’s recent outings, voiced optimism for better results ahead. He mentioned their aim to perform better with both bat and ball, especially after a challenging series against the UAE.
Playing XIs
The Pakistani team for the match included Salman Ali Agha as captain, Fakhar Zaman, Saim Ayub, wicketkeeper Mohammad Haris, Hasan Nawaz, Shadab Khan, Khushdil Shah, Faheem Ashraf, Hasan Ali, Haris Rauf, and Abrar Ahmed.
Bangladesh XI: Litton Das (capt), Tanzid Hasan, Parvez Hossain Emon, Towhid Hridoy, Mahedi Hasan, Jaker Ali (wk), Shamim Hossain, Rishad Hossain, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Hasan Mahmud, Shoriful Islam
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