LAHORE - Pakistan will look to seal the T20I series when they take on Bangladesh in the second match of the three-game series at Gaddafi Stadium Lahore on Friday (today).
Riding high after a commanding 37-run victory in the opener, the home side, led by Salman Ali Agha, is keen to wrap up the series with a game to spare. The first T20I saw Pakistan deliver a balanced performance in all departments, despite the absence of senior stars like Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan.
Skipper Agha led from the front with a composed knock, while young Hasan Nawaz justified his growing reputation, building on his exploits from the Pakistan Super League. But the real highlight was Hasan Ali, whose five-wicket haul evoked memories of his 2017 brilliance. The experienced Shadab Khan also continued his fine form, contributing with both bat and ball.
“We want depth – eightbatters and six bowling options,” Agha said after the match. “Even Saim Ayub can give us four overs. With so many quality all-rounders, we are in a strong position. Hasan Ali has been phenomenal; his PSL form is clearly translating into international success.”
While Pakistan appeared settled, Bangladesh had mixed moments. Captain Litton Das found some rhythm, and Jaker Ali continued to impress in the middle order. Tanzid Hasan and Towhid Hridoy showed potential, but their inconsistency remains a concern. The top order must step up if Bangladesh are to level the series.
The visitors also struggled to contain Pakistan’s lineup with a spin-heavy attack that fell short. However, the emergence of Rishad Hossain and Mahedi Hasan remains promising, while Shamim Hossain surprised the hosts and could become a game-changer in this series.
Bangladesh bowling consultant Mushtaq Ahmed, speaking after the first match, remained hopeful. “Pakistan played very positive cricket, and players like Shadab and Agha made a real impact. But our bowlers are adjusting, and I believe we can bounce back. Missing Mustafizur and Taskin hurts, but Rishad is a bright future talent. The crowd was electric and it added great energy to the match.”
With the series poised at 1-0, Today’s (Friday) clash is crucial. Pakistan will aim to maintain momentum and secure the series, while Bangladesh seek redemption and a shot at taking it to a decider on June 1.
PROBABLE XIS:
PAKISTAN: Fakhar Zaman, Saim Ayub, Mohammad Haris (wk), Hasan Nawaz, Salman Agha (capt), Shadab Khan, Khushdil Shah, Faheem Ashraf, Haris Rauf/Abbas Afridi, Hasan Ali, Abrar Ahmed.
BANGLADESH:Tanzid Hasan, Parvez Hossain Emon, Litton Das (capt), Towhid Hridoy, Jaker Ali (wk), Shamim Hossain, Mahedi Hasan, Rishad Hossain, Tanzim Hasan, Hasan Mahmud, Shoriful Islam.
2nd T20I
Pak vs B’desh
Match starts at
8:00 PM
