The eagerly awaited three-match T20 International series between Pakistan and Bangladesh is set to begin this Sunday, with the opening match scheduled at Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur, Dhaka, starting at 5 PM local time. However, fans and organizers may have to brace for potential disruptions, as rain is forecasted, posing a serious threat to the series schedule.
Pakistan Team Takes a Break Ahead of Opener
In a strategic decision, the Pakistan cricket team opted to rest on Saturday rather than take part in a practice session, possibly due to the tight schedule and the weather conditions. The trophy unveiling ceremony was held at the team hotel, keeping preparations low-key ahead of the clash. The squad is expected to feature most of the players who whitewashed Bangladesh 3-0 during their home series in May.
There will, however, be a few changes in the lineup. Salman Mirza is likely to replace Haris Rauf, who may be rested, while Mohammad Nawaz is tipped to return in place of Shadab Khan, adding variety to the spin attack. With a strong track record against Bangladesh, the Pakistani team appears confident, having won 19 out of 22 T20I matches played against the hosts to date.
Bangladesh Looks to Build Momentum at Home
After a mixed recent performance, including defeats to the UAE and Pakistan, Bangladesh bounced back with a 2-1 T20I series win over Sri Lanka last week. This winning momentum could boost their confidence, especially considering their familiarity with home conditions. Historically, Bangladesh has won only three T20Is against Pakistan, two of which were in Dhaka, in 2015 and 2016.
For this series, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has retained the same squad that took on Sri Lanka. Liton Das will lead the side, and the team is expected to rely heavily on its spin attack, capitalizing on conditions that traditionally favor slow bowlers at the Sher-e-Bangla pitch.
Game Plan and Key Players to Watch
Pakistan’s strategy appears focused on maximizing runs during the powerplay overs. Head coach Mike Hesson and captain Salman Agha are reportedly emphasizing an aggressive approach in the first six overs, leveraging their batting depth.
Young guns like Saim Ayub, Mohammad Haris, and Salman Agha are known for their fearless batting style. Meanwhile, Fakhar Zaman, with his vast experience and power-hitting capabilities, will be expected to anchor the middle overs. Sahibzada Farhan and Hasan Nawaz are also viewed as key assets capable of delivering impactful performances both at the start and towards the end of the innings.
On the other side, Bangladesh is expected to stick to its traditional strengths, deploying multiple spinners to challenge Pakistan’s aggressive top order. Their game plan will likely revolve around stifling the flow of runs in the middle overs while exploiting any batting collapses.
Venue Advantage and Historical Record
Pakistan has maintained a stronghold over T20 encounters with Bangladesh. In matches held in Bangladesh, Pakistan has won five and lost two out of seven T20Is. Those two losses occurred in 2015 and 2016, both in Dhaka — a fact that the Bangladeshi team will aim to replicate this time. However, with Pakistan’s dominance in recent meetings, the visitors will enter the series as favorites.
Ticketing Confusion Frustrates Fans
While anticipation for the series is high, the ticketing process has caused widespread frustration among fans. The Bangladesh Cricket Board had announced that all tickets would be sold exclusively online, but many supporters report issues with the online ticketing system, including delays in confirmation, poor website performance, and confusing instructions.
This mismanagement has led to disappointment, especially for those who hoped to purchase tickets on short notice or obtain instant confirmation. The BCB has yet to release a clarification or offer alternative options, leaving many fans uncertain about whether they will be able to attend the matches.
What to Expect Moving Forward
As the first match of the T20I series kicks off, all eyes will be on the weather and how it influences play. Both teams have much to prove — Pakistan aims to extend their winning streak, while Bangladesh is looking to break the trend and defend home turf. With power-hitters, tactical bowling options, and unpredictable weather, the series promises to deliver high-intensity cricket — if the skies allow.
Fans will be hoping for clear weather, fair ticketing access, and three thrilling contests between two passionate cricketing nations.
