Bangladesh clinched a thrilling T20I series against Pakistan in Mirpur, with middle-order batter Jaker Ali starring as the foundation of their hard-fought victory. Defending a modest 133, Bangladesh’s bowlers kept the pressure on Pakistan, but it was Jaker’s mature innings after a top-order collapse that set up the win and earned him the Player of the Match award.
Jaker Ali Holds Fort After Early Collapse
- Bangladesh slipped to 28-4 inside the powerplay, facing quality bowling under tough conditions.
- Jaker Ali, coming in at a difficult time, calmly rebuilt the innings and ensured Bangladesh reached a defendable total.
- He showcased his ability to bat with the tail, guiding his side from trouble to a respectable position.
Jaker Ali on His Mindset and Batting Role
After the game, Jaker discussed his approach in the press conference:
- Preparation: He was “mentally prepared” to bat at No. 5, a position he knew he would occupy well ahead of time, and referenced prior experience batting in similar situations in age-group cricket and overseas.
- Batting With The Tail: Jaker has batted at No. 7 for several years and is comfortable crafting partnerships with lower-order batters. He recalled once adding 71 crucial runs with the tail to score a century in Under-17s cricket.
- Team Plan: Captain Litton Das instructed him to target a total around 140, recognizing the difficult batting conditions in Mirpur.
- Goal-Oriented Approach: “I only count match-winning runs. The rest doesn’t register with me,” Jaker stated, emphasizing his focus on contributions that lead directly to team victories.
- Coaching Influence: He credited his development and adaptability to routines and training with Bangladesh’s batting coach, Mohammad Salahuddin.
Match Impact
- Jaker’s calculated innings stabilized Bangladesh, which, combined with clinical bowling from Mahedi Hasan, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, and Shoriful Islam, helped defend a small total.
- His ability to adapt and perform under pressure, both with the top and lower order, highlighted his versatility and importance to the team.
Looking Ahead
- Having already sealed the series 2-0, Bangladesh go into the third and final T20I with confidence, buoyed by Jaker Ali’s match-winning performances and positive mindset.
Jaker Ali’s composure and adaptability underlined his growth as a reliable middle-order batter, setting a strong example for Bangladesh as they look to build on their T20I success.
