Bangladesh kicked off their T20I series against Pakistan in emphatic style, securing a commanding seven-wicket win in the first match at Mirpur.
After bundling Pakistan out for a modest 110, the hosts chased down the target with 27 balls to spare, riding on Parvez Hossain Emon’s scintillating unbeaten half-century.
Pakistan’s decision to bat first quickly backfired. Despite a lifeline for Fakhar Zaman early on, the top order crumbled under sustained pressure.
Taskin Ahmed (3 for 22) and Mustafizur Rahman (2 for 6) spearheaded a disciplined bowling attack, backed by sharp fielding that produced three run-outs. Fakhar’s 44 was the lone resistance in a disjointed innings that never found momentum.
Bangladesh’s chase began shakily, with Salman Mirza striking twice on debut. But Parvez and Towhid Hridoy turned the tide swiftly.
Parvez smashed five sixes in a fluent 56 off 39 deliveries, showing composure and flair in equal measure. Hridoy chipped in with 36, surviving a couple of chances as Pakistan’s fielding woes continued.
Parvez’s fearless strokeplay took the game away from Pakistan, who dropped crucial catches at key junctures. His onslaught, including a series of crisp boundaries off Nawaz and Ashraf, ensured there were no late twists. Jaker Ali’s neat cameo sealed the deal, with the winning runs coming in the 16th over.
For Pakistan, the defeat was a rude awakening, highlighting brittle batting and sloppy fielding. Bangladesh, on the other hand, will take heart from a complete team performance and head into the second match brimming with confidence.