Sahibzada Farhan and Hasan Nawaz Shine with Explosive Half-Centuries

LAHORE – In a thrilling T20I showdown at Gaddafi Stadium, Pakistan crushed Bangladesh by 57 runs in the second match of the three-game series, securing an unassailable 2-0 series lead. It was a comprehensive display from the home side, highlighted by stunning half-centuries from Sahibzada Farhan and Hasan Nawaz, along with a lethal bowling performance spearheaded by Abrar Ahmed.

Put into bat first by skipper Salman Ali Agha, Pakistan posted an imposing 201/6 in their 20 overs, building pressure from the outset and never letting up.

Top-Order Fireworks Set the Stage for a Dominant Total

Pakistan’s innings began on shaky ground with Saim Ayub falling early for just 4 runs. But the early breakthrough failed to disrupt the hosts’ rhythm for long. Sahibzada Farhan and Mohammad Haris steadied the innings with a masterful 103-run partnership that not only stabilized Pakistan’s position but also pushed the scoring rate up significantly.

Farhan, in particular, was sensational, hammering 74 off just 41 balls, featuring four boundaries and six massive sixes. His aggressive yet calculated innings dismantled Bangladesh’s bowling attack. Haris also contributed a fiery 41 off 25 deliveries, smashing four fours and two sixes before both fell in quick succession.

The momentum, however, was carried forward by Hasan Nawaz, who displayed maturity beyond his years. He stayed unbeaten on 51 from just 26 balls, striking two fours and three sixes, ensuring Pakistan crossed the 200-run mark with ease.

Contributions from Salman Ali Agha (19 off 12) and a brief cameo by Shadab Khan (7 off 10) added to the total, though wickets continued to fall at intervals. For Bangladesh, Tanzim Hasan Sakib and Hasan Mahmud took two wickets each, while Rishad Hossain managed to break through with one.

Bangladesh Falter Despite Fiery Start

In pursuit of a daunting 202-run target, Bangladesh started brightly with an aggressive 38-run opening stand in the first three overs. Tanzid Hasan looked in sublime touch, racing to 33 off 19 balls, laced with five fours and a six.

However, their hopes were dashed quickly as Parvez Hossain Emon fell to Haris Rauf for 8, and Tanzid was dismissed soon after, miscuing a shot to Abrar Ahmed at fine leg off Faheem Ashraf.

This triggered a dramatic collapse, with Bangladesh plummeting from 38/0 to 77/7 within 10 overs. The middle order crumbled under pressure, unable to withstand Pakistan’s disciplined and relentless bowling attack.

Tanzim Hasan Sakib’s Lone Resistance Not Enough

Amid the chaos, Mehidy Hasan Miraz tried to hold the innings together, contributing 23 off 17 balls, and forming a 33-run eighth-wicket stand with Tanzim Hasan Sakib. The latter fought valiantly, crafting his maiden T20I half-century — a 31-ball 50, including one boundary and five towering sixes.

But it was too little, too late. Once Sakib was dismissed, the tail offered minimal resistance, and Bangladesh were bowled out for 144 in 19 overs, conceding the match and the series.

Abrar Ahmed Leads the Bowling Carnage

Among Pakistan’s bowling heroes, Abrar Ahmed stood out with an incredible spell, finishing with 3 wickets for just 19 runs in his 4 overs. His variations, control, and clever changes of pace baffled the Bangladeshi batters, especially through the middle overs.

Support came from every corner of the bowling lineup:

• Haris Rauf: 1 wicket
• Faheem Ashraf: 1 wicket
• Shadab Khan: 1 wicket
• Khushdil Shah: 1 wicket
• Hasan Ali: 1 wicket
• Saim Ayub: 1 wicket

The Pakistani bowlers maintained pressure with tight lines and controlled aggression, never allowing Bangladesh any breathing room after their initial burst.

Series Win Signals Pakistan’s Dominance in T20 Cricket

This emphatic victory not only seals the series but also sends a strong message about Pakistan’s growing depth and talent in the T20 format. With emerging stars like Hasan Nawaz stepping up and experienced players like Farhan and Abrar delivering match-winning performances, the team looks increasingly balanced and confident.

The final T20I, set to be played on Sunday at the same venue, now becomes an opportunity for Pakistan to complete a clean sweep, while Bangladesh will aim to salvage some pride.

Playing XIs

Pakistan:

• Fakhar Zaman
• Saim Ayub
• Mohammad Haris (wk)
• Salman Ali Agha (c)
• Hasan Nawaz
• Shadab Khan
• Khushdil Shah
• Faheem Ashraf
• Hasan Ali
• Haris Rauf
• Abrar Ahmed

Bangladesh:

• Tanzid Hasan
• Parvez Hossain Emon
• Litton Das (c)
• Towhid Hridoy
• Mahedi Hasan
• Jaker Ali (wk)
• Shamim Hossain
• Rishad Hossain
• Tanzim Hasan Sakib
• Hasan Mahmud
• Shoriful Islam

Conclusion: A Statement Victory in Lahore

Pakistan’s comprehensive win in the second T20I reflects a team in fine form and perfect coordination. From dominating with the bat to strangling with the ball, the home side outclassed their opponents in all departments.

As the series wraps up, Pakistan will look to continue their winning momentum, while Bangladesh will be forced to go back to the drawing board. The roaring crowd at Gaddafi Stadium witnessed a brilliant all-round display that reminded the world why Pakistan remains a T20 powerhouse.