Lahore (Web Desk): Pakistan put on a commanding batting display in the second T20I of the three-match series against Bangladesh, played at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium on Friday. A decision to bat first by skipper Salman Ali Agha paid off as the home team piled up an imposing total of 201 for 6 in their 20 overs.
Despite a shaky start, with opener Saim Ayub departing for just four in the second over, Pakistan quickly bounced back. Wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Haris joined Sahibzada Farhan at the crease and the pair launched a counterattack, stitching together a thrilling 103-run partnership for the second wicket.
Farhan led the charge with an aggressive 74 off just 41 deliveries, smashing four boundaries and clearing the ropes six times. Haris provided solid support, contributing a quickfire 41 off 25 balls, which included four fours and two sixes. However, both batters were dismissed in quick succession, briefly halting Pakistan’s momentum.
Captain Agha and young talent Hasan Nawaz then combined to add 45 crucial runs for the fourth wicket. Agha chipped in with a handy 19 from 12 balls, featuring three boundaries, before being dismissed lbw while attempting a ramp shot.
Hasan Nawaz carried on the onslaught, adding a brisk 24-run stand with Shadab Khan. Though Shadab fell cheaply for seven, Hasan remained unbeaten till the end, scoring a dynamic 51 off 26 balls with two fours and three sixes.
On the bowling front for Bangladesh, Tanzim Hasan Sakib and Hasan Mahmud claimed two wickets each, while Rishad Hossain picked up one.
Teams
Pakistan:
Salman Ali Agha (captain), Fakhar Zaman, Saem Ayub, Muhammad Haris, Hasan Nawaz, Shadab Khan, Khushdil Shah, Faheem Ashraf, Hasan Ali, Haris Rauf, and Abrar Ahmed.
Bangladesh:
Litton Das (Captain), Tanzid Hasan, Parvez Hossain Emon, Towhid Hridoy, Mahedi Hasan, Jaker Ali (wk), Shamim Hossain, Rishad Hossain, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Hasan Mahmud, Shoriful Islam