In a surprising and disappointing performance, Pakistan suffered a crushing defeat in the first T20 International against Bangladesh at the Sher-e-Bangla Stadium in Mirpur. What was expected to be a high-scoring, entertaining contest turned into a one-sided affair as the home team outclassed Pakistan in all departments—batting, bowling, and fielding—securing a convincing seven-wicket victory with 27 balls to spare.
A Tough Pitch and a Poor Start
Unlike typical T20 pitches that favor aggressive batting, the Mirpur surface offered little assistance to batters. It was a slow, spin-friendly wicket where timing shots proved difficult. Despite these conditions, Bangladesh adapted better, while the Pakistani team faltered right from the start.
Pakistan won the toss and chose to bat first, but their decision backfired almost immediately. The top-order collapsed within the powerplay, with half of the team back in the pavilion for just 46 runs. Seven Pakistani batsmen failed to reach double figures, exposing serious flaws in their technique and shot selection against spin and disciplined pace.
Batting Collapse
Fakhar Zaman was the only standout performer with the bat, scoring 44 runs off 34 balls before being run out in an unfortunate mix-up. Opener Saim Ayub managed only 6 runs, while Muhammad Haris (4), captain Agha Salman (3), Hassan Nawaz (0), and Muhammad Nawaz (3) all failed to contribute meaningfully.
The middle and lower order didn’t offer much resistance either. Khushdil Shah scored 17 runs with a six and a four, while Abbas Afridi chipped in with a valuable 22 off 24 balls, including three sixes. Pakistan was eventually bowled out for a modest total of 110 runs.
Bangladeshi bowlers displayed exceptional control and accuracy. Taskin Ahmed led the attack with figures of 3 for 22, while Mustafizur Rahman was virtually unplayable, conceding just six runs in four overs and picking up two wickets. Mehdi Hasan and Tanzim Hasan Sakib also took a wicket each, contributing to Pakistan’s collapse.
Fielding Woes and Missed Opportunities
Pakistan’s troubles didn’t end with the bat. Their fielding performance added to the misery. The team dropped three crucial catches, two of them by wicketkeeper Muhammad Haris. Abrar Ahmed and Haris both dropped chances offered by Tohid Hridoy, and in the death overs, Haris also failed to hold onto an easy catch from Parvez Hossain Emon.
These missed opportunities allowed Bangladesh to chase the target comfortably, with batsmen playing freely once the initial pressure was absorbed.
Bangladesh’s Clinical Chase
Chasing a modest target of 111, Bangladesh got off to a shaky start. Debutant Salman Mirza struck early, removing Tanzid Hasan for 1 run and sending back captain Litton Das, who edged one to Khushdil Shah at slip. With the score at 7 for 2, Pakistan seemed to have an opening.
However, Parvez Hossain Emon and Tohid Hridoy quickly steadied the innings. Their 73-run partnership off 62 balls shifted the momentum firmly in Bangladesh’s favor. Tohid scored 36 runs before being dismissed by Abbas Afridi, but by then, the damage was done. Jakir Ali added an unbeaten 15 with three boundaries, ensuring a comfortable finish.
Parvez Hossain Emon was named Player of the Match for his superb unbeaten 56 off 39 balls, which included five sixes and three fours. This was his second half-century against Pakistan, reaffirming his ability to deliver under pressure.
A Wake-Up Call for Pakistan
This defeat marks a significant low for the Pakistani T20 side. Their recent 3-0 series victory over Bangladesh at home in May now feels like a distant memory. The team management decided to make changes to the squad, excluding key players like Sahibzada Farhan, Hassan Ali, and Shadab Khan—choices that clearly didn’t pay off.
The loss also comes in the wake of Bangladesh’s strong performance in Sri Lanka, where they secured a 2-1 series win. With three consecutive national victories under their belt, Bangladesh is building strong momentum, while Pakistan needs urgent introspection.
This match exposed deep flaws in Pakistan’s T20 strategy, especially in terms of team selection, adaptability to pitch conditions, and on-field performance. With the next matches around the corner, the team needs to regroup quickly and address these issues if they wish to stay competitive.
On the other hand, Bangladesh continues to impress with disciplined bowling, sharp fielding, and a confident batting lineup. Their victory in Mirpur was well-deserved and a testament to their growing prowess in T20 cricket.
