Did Bangladesh Achieve a Historic T20I Series Victory Over Pakistan?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Bangladesh clinches first T20I series win over Pakistan.
- Jaker Ali Anik shines with 55 runs.
- Shoriful Islam and Mustafizur Rahman lead a strong bowling attack.
- Faheem Ashraf's valiant effort falls short.
- Final match set for July 24.
Dhaka, July 22 (NationPress) Bangladesh has achieved a historic milestone by clinching their first-ever T20I series against Pakistan, winning a nail-biting match by eight runs at the bustling Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka on Tuesday. The hosts now lead the three-match series 2-0, thanks to a strong bowling performance complemented by a late batting surge.
In a defensive effort of 134 runs, Bangladesh's pace trio – Shoriful Islam, Mustafizur Rahman, and Tanzim Hasan Sakib – showcased a disciplined bowling display that dismantled Pakistan’s batting line-up. The visitors fell to a shocking 15/5 within the first five overs, marking their lowest score after losing five wickets in a T20I.
Shoriful, stepping in for Taskin Ahmed, was particularly effective, taking the wickets of Mohammad Haris and Fakhar Zaman early on. Tanzim's crucial double strike in the fifth over further stifled Pakistan's chase, dismissing both Nawazs – Hasan and Mohammad – in consecutive deliveries.
As Pakistan struggled at 47/7, Faheem Ashraf fought valiantly, achieving his maiden T20I half-century with three sixes and four boundaries. His partnership of 41 runs with Abbas Afridi briefly lifted Pakistan’s hopes.
Ashraf’s aggressive play, including a 20-run over against Rishad Hossain, brought the chase down to 13 runs required in the final over. However, Mustafizur responded by taking the wicket of debutant Ahmed Daniyal and securing the thrilling victory with three balls remaining.
Earlier, opting to bat first, Bangladesh found themselves in dire straits at 28/4 due to the impressive bowling from Pakistan’s newcomers. Salman Mirza and Ahmed Daniyal troubled the top order, with Daniyal taking out key players like Parvez Hossain Emon and Shamim Hossain.
However, it was Jaker Ali Anik who rejuvenated the innings with a fearless 55, including five sixes in a late surge. His partnership of 53 runs with Mahedi Hasan Miraz (33 off 25) laid a solid foundation before he accelerated in the death overs, leading Bangladesh to a total of 133 all out – a score that ultimately proved sufficient.
This groundbreaking victory signifies Bangladesh's first T20I series win over Pakistan, providing a significant boost to a team that has faced inconsistency in recent performances. For Pakistan, this defeat raises concerns about their batting fragility, especially at the top order, as they approach the final match.
The teams will face off again on Wednesday, July 24, for the third and final T20I, with Bangladesh aiming for a clean sweep while Pakistan seeks to restore their pride.
Brief scores:
Bangladesh 133 all out in 20 overs (Jaker Ali 55, Mahedi Hasan 33; Salman Mirza 2/17, Ahmed Daniyal 2/23) beat Pakistan 125 all out in 19.2 overs (Faheem Ashraf 51, Abbas Afridi 19; Shoriful Islam 3/17, Tanzim Hasan 2/23) by eight runs.