DUBAI: In a must-win Asia Cup 2025 Super Four clash, Pakistan successfully defended a modest total of 136 runs, dismantling Bangladesh’s batting lineup with disciplined bowling and sharp fielding.
This victory takes Pakistan to the Asia Cup final, where they will face India who have already qualified. The final Super Four match between India and Sri Lanka is scheduled for Friday.
After winning the toss, Bangladesh opted to field first, a decision that paid off early as Pakistan’s top order collapsed under pressure. By the time the scoreboard read 49, half the Pakistani side was back in the pavilion.
Openers Sahibzada Farhan (4) and Saim Ayub (0) failed to provide a solid start. Notably, Saim Ayub was dismissed for a duck for the fourth time in this tournament. Fakhar Zaman (13), Hussain Talat (3), and captain Salman Ali Agha (19) were also unable to build a meaningful partnership.
In the lower order, Shaheen Afridi (19), Mohammad Haris (31), and Mohammad Nawaz (25) added crucial runs to take Pakistan to a fighting total of 136. Faheem Ashraf remained unbeaten on 14, while Haris Rauf chipped in with 3 not out.
For Bangladesh, Taskin Ahmed was the pick of the bowlers, taking 3 wickets. Mehidy Hasan and Rishad Hossain contributed with two wickets each.
In reply, Bangladesh had a shaky start. Pakistan’s pacers struck early, with Shaheen Afridi dismissing Parvez Hossain for 0 and Towhid Hridoy for just 5. Haris Rauf removed Saif Hassan (18), while Mehidy Hasan (11) and Nurul Hasan (16) couldn’t hold the innings together. Jaker Ali also fell cheaply for 5.
At 63/5, Bangladesh found themselves under immense pressure, unable to recover from Pakistan’s early blows.
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