In a gripping finale to the three-match ODI series, Bangladesh narrowly defeated Pakistan by 11 runs, clinching the series 2-1 at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur. Defending a competitive total of 291, Bangladesh’s pace bowlers struck decisively early, dismantling Pakistan’s batting lineup, while veteran Salman Ali Agha almost single-handedly kept the visitors in contention.
This victory marks a historic moment for Bangladesh, who have now won consecutive ODI series against Pakistan. The last bilateral series between the two nations was in 2015, when Bangladesh swept Pakistan 3-0.
Pakistan Struggles from the Start
Chasing 291, Pakistan found themselves in immediate trouble. Bangladesh pacers Taskin Ahmed and Nahid Rana exploited early conditions brilliantly, reducing Pakistan to 17 for 3 within the opening overs. Taskin bowled Sahibzada Farhan (6) in the first over, followed by Nahid dismissing Maz Sadakat (6) in the next. Taskin returned to bowl Rizwan (4) in his second over, leaving Pakistan under severe pressure.
Attempts to steady the innings by Gazi Ghuri and Abdul Samad proved largely ineffective. Ghuri scored 29 from 39 balls, while Samad made 34 off 45 deliveries, leaving Pakistan five wickets down just past the 100-run mark.
Salman Ali Agha Keeps Pakistan Afloat
The innings’ backbone came from Salman Ali Agha, who initially partnered with Sadiq Masud. The duo added 79 runs before Masud fell for 38, bowled by Mustafizur Rahman. Salman then joined forces with Shahin Shah Afridi, reaching both a half-century and a century, keeping Pakistan’s hopes alive. Taskin eventually ended Salman’s innings at 106, but Pakistan remained within striking distance. Shahin’s late assault in the 49th over, including two towering sixes, brought Pakistan tantalisingly close to victory, yet the visitors ultimately fell short at 279.
Bangladesh Bowling Masterclass
Bangladesh’s bowlers delivered an exceptional performance, led by Taskin Ahmed with four wickets. Mustafizur Rahman claimed three, Nahid Rana two, and Rishad Hossain one.
| Bowler | Wickets | Runs Conceded |
|---|---|---|
| Taskin Ahmed | 4 | – |
| Mustafizur Rahman | 3 | – |
| Nahid Rana | 2 | – |
| Rishad Hossain | 1 | – |
For Pakistan, Haris Rauf was the pick with three wickets, while Abrar Ahmed and Shahin Shah Afridi claimed one each.
Bangladesh Batting Highlights
Bangladesh won the toss and elected to bat, beginning strongly with an opening stand of 105 runs. Saifuddin scored 36 off 55 balls before falling to Shahin, while Nazmul Hossain Shanto added 27 runs, dismissed by Haris Rauf.
Opener Tanzid Hasan Tamim celebrated his maiden ODI century, scoring 107 off 107 balls, including six fours and seven sixes. He forged a crucial fourth-wicket partnership of 68 runs with Liton Kumar Das (41). Lower down, Towhid Hridoy remained unbeaten on 48 from 44 balls, with Afif Hossain finishing five not out, guiding Bangladesh to a formidable 290 for 6.
| Category | Bangladesh | Pakistan |
|---|---|---|
| Total Runs | 290/6 | 279 all out |
| Highest Scorer | Tanzid Hasan Tamim – 107 | Salman Ali Agha – 106 |
| Leading Wicket-taker | Taskin Ahmed – 4 | Haris Rauf – 3 |
| Result | Bangladesh won by 11 runs | – |
Series Implications
The thrilling win not only secured the series but also demonstrated Bangladesh’s growing dominance in ODI cricket. With consistent performances from both batting and bowling units, Mehedi Hasan Miraz’s side are firmly establishing themselves as a force to be reckoned with on the international stage.