Bangladesh Make History with First-Ever T20I Series Victory Against Pakistan
Bangladesh etched their name into the history books after pulling off a gripping 8-run win over Pakistan in the second T20I at the Shere Bangla National Stadium, sealing their first-ever T20I series win against their subcontinental rivals.
In a tense low-scoring contest, Bangladesh’s collective grit outshone Pakistan’s late surge, with Jaker Ali’s composed 55, Mahedi Hasan’s timely 33, and a fiery pace performance from Shoriful Islam (3-17) and Tanzim Hasan proving decisive.
Tigers Roar Early with the Ball
Defending a modest total of 133, Bangladesh came out firing with the ball. Within five overs, Pakistan had collapsed to a shocking 15 for 5, their worst-ever start in T20I history after five wickets. Shoriful Islam, replacing Taskin Ahmed, immediately struck gold, claiming two early wickets, including the dangerous Fakhar Zaman.
Tanzim Hasan then tightened the screws, dismissing both Hasans — Nawaz and Nawaz — in the same over. Pakistan’s top six failed to get into double digits, leaving their tail with too much to do.
Faheem Ashraf Fights a Lone Battle
Despite the top-order disaster, Faheem Ashraf nearly engineered a miraculous comeback. Walking in at 47 for 7, Ashraf launched a powerful counterattack, slamming 51 off 32 balls, including three towering sixes.
He added 41 runs with Abbas Afridi for the ninth wicket and took Pakistan within 13 runs of the target before holing out in the final overs. Debutant Ahmed Daniyal provided brief hope with a late boundary, but the seasoned Mustafizur Rahman held his nerve in the last over.
Jaker and Mahedi Lay the Foundation
Earlier, Bangladesh’s innings was resurrected by a crucial 53-run stand between Jaker Ali and Mahedi Hasan. The hosts had stumbled to 28 for 4 before the pair steadied the ship. Jaker, known for his calmness under pressure, paced his innings beautifully before accelerating in the final overs.
He hit five sixes, three of them in the death overs, pushing Bangladesh past the 130-mark — a total that proved just enough.
Bowling Brilliance Secures Glory
Shoriful’s pace and accuracy up front, followed by Tanzim’s double strike, choked Pakistan early. Even a late fielding error couldn’t deny Bangladesh this momentous triumph.
This win not only gave Bangladesh their first T20I series victory over Pakistan, but also showcased the depth and resilience of their young talent pool — a promising sign for their white-ball future.