Bangladesh have been set a target of 136 runs by Pakistan in a must-win Asia Cup Super Four clash at the Dubai International Stadium on Thursday.
Opting to bat first, Pakistan were restricted to a modest total, thanks to a disciplined and strategic bowling performance by Bangladesh. The bowlers kept a tight line, applying pressure throughout the innings.
Young leg-spinner Rishad Hossain played a key role, removing Fakhar Zaman for 13 off 20 balls right after the Powerplay, before striking again in his next over to dismiss Hussain Talat for 3. At the 10-over mark, Pakistan were struggling at 46 for 4.
Pakistan captain Salman Agha remained unbeaten on 18 off 21 balls, while Mohammad Haris finished not out on 8 off 5 deliveries, helping Pakistan limp to a competitive but chaseable total.
This match is crucial for both sides, with a place in the final hanging in the balance. A loss for either team would effectively end their Asia Cup campaign.
Bangladesh Playing XI:
Saif Hassan, Parvez Hossain Emon, Towhid Hridoy, Shamim Hossain, Jaker Ali (capt & wk), Nurul Hasan, Rishad Hossain, Mahedi Hasan, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman
Pakistan Playing XI:
Sahibzada Farhan, Fakhar Zaman, Saim Ayub, Salman Agha (capt), Hussain Talat, Mohammad Haris (wk), Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed