Pakistan lost the three-match ODI series to Bangladesh 2–1 after a narrow defeat in the final game at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Dhaka, marking a challenging start to the team’s limited-overs campaign under captain Shaheen Shah Afridi.
The decisive third match saw Bangladesh secure an 11-run victory, despite a fighting century from Pakistan’s Salman Ali Agha. The result sealed the series for the hosts and highlighted Bangladesh’s strong performance in home conditions across the contest.
Bangladesh take early advantage
Bangladesh set the tone in the opening ODI, dismissing Pakistan for 114 before chasing down the target comfortably with eight wickets in hand. Fast bowler Nahid Rana played a key role with the ball, while opener Tanzid Hasan contributed an aggressive innings to guide the hosts to victory in just over 15 overs.
The win gave Bangladesh a 1–0 lead in the three-match series played in Dhaka.
Pakistan level series in second ODI
Pakistan responded strongly in the second match to keep the series alive. Batting first, they posted 274 runs, with Maaz Sadaqat and Salman Ali Agha making significant contributions.
Pakistan’s bowlers then dismantled Bangladesh’s batting line-up, dismissing the hosts for 114 to secure a comprehensive victory by 127 runs and level the series 1–1.
Decider ends in narrow defeat
The final ODI produced a close contest, with Bangladesh posting a competitive total built around a century from Tanzid Hasan. Pakistan’s chase was anchored by Salman Ali Agha, who scored a century and kept the visitors in contention deep into the innings.
However, Bangladesh’s bowlers held their nerve in the closing stages, restricting Pakistan to an 11-run defeat and clinching the series 2–1.
The match also saw controversy over a late Decision Review System (DRS) call, with Pakistan officials raising concerns with the match referee following the final-over incident.
Context for Pakistan’s squad
The ODI series marked the first assignment for Pakistan under Shaheen Afridi’s leadership in the format, with the Pakistan Cricket Board introducing several new players into the squad as part of a broader transition in the team.
While Pakistan managed to level the series midway, Bangladesh’s consistent performances in home conditions ultimately proved decisive in securing the series win.
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