Pakistan claimed a dominant 37-run victory over Bangladesh in the first T20I of their three-match series in Lahore. Hasan Ali was the standout performer, claiming a career-best 5 for 30, while Shadab Khan also played a crucial role with both bat and ball. Pakistan posted a competitive total of 201/7, and Bangladesh could only manage 164 in their chase.
Pakistan’s Batting: Salman, Shadab, and Nawaz Lead the Charge
Salman Agha top-scored for Pakistan with 56 off 34 balls, supported well by Shadab Khan, who added 48 off 25 balls. Despite an early collapse, with Saim Ayub and Fakhar Zaman both dismissed quickly, Mohammad Haris‘s 31 off 18 balls helped steady the innings. Nawaz provided excellent support with 44 off 22 balls, including some crucial big hits.
Shadab Khan took charge in the final overs, hitting two sixes and two fours in the last over, helping Pakistan push their score past 200.
Bangladesh’s Chase: Hasan Ali and Shadab Khan Shine
Bangladesh’s chase began shakily, losing both openers early. Hasan Ali‘s fiery spell removed Parvez Hossain and Tanzid Hasan with clinical deliveries, leaving Bangladesh struggling at 141/6. Jaker Ali gave a glimmer of hope with a brisk 36 off 20 balls, but Hasan Ali returned in the 18th over to dismiss him, completing his five-wicket haul.
Despite a strong partnership between Litton Das (48) and Towhid Hridoy (17 off 22), Bangladesh’s progress stalled. Litton hit three sixes, but was dismissed by Shadab Khan, marking a key turning point in the match.
Key Performances: Hasan Ali and Shadab Khan
- Hasan Ali delivered a match-winning performance with 5 for 30, including the dismissal of Jaker Ali and Tanzid Hasan in quick succession to seal the win for Pakistan.
- Shadab Khan, with a quick-fire 48 off 25 balls, played a crucial role in lifting Pakistan’s total. He also contributed with the ball, taking 2 for 26 and dismissing Litton Das.
Bangladesh’s Struggle
While Litton Das top-scored with 48, the rest of the batting line-up struggled. Hridoy’s slow knock (17 off 22 balls) and Tanzid’s failure to capitalize put a dent in Bangladesh’s chase. Despite some promising moments, including Jaker Ali’s late cameo, they fell short, finishing at 164 all out.
Final Thoughts
Pakistan’s T20I dominance continued with a complete team performance, spearheaded by Hasan Ali‘s five-wicket haul and vital contributions from Salman Agha, Shadab Khan, and Nawaz. Bangladesh‘s middle-order collapse, despite a strong opening partnership, allowed Pakistan to seize control. With a 1-0 lead, Pakistan will look to extend their advantage in the second match of the series.
