Bangladesh Face Off Pakistan in 1st T20I – Post-Match Highlights
Bangladesh Face Off Pakistan in 1st T20I date and time: On July 20, 2025, cricket fans witnessed a thrilling series opener at the Shere Bangla National Stadium, Dhaka. Bangladesh’s emphatic victory by seven wickets not only breaks Pakistan’s dominance in their T20I rivalry but sets a bold marker for the remainder of the series.
How the Match Played Out
- Toss: Bangladesh captain Litton Das won the toss and opted to bowl first.
Pakistan’s Batting: Despite early boundaries, Pakistan finished with only 110 runs in 19.3 overs—their lowest ever T20I total against Bangladesh in Dhaka.
- Fakhar Zaman top-scored with 44, holding the innings together amid a dramatic collapse.
- Bangladesh’s bowling was relentless, with Taskin Ahmed grabbing three wickets and Mustafizur Rahman conceding just six runs in four overs.
- Fielding excellence played a role: three Pakistan batters were run out, aggravating their woes.
Bangladesh’s Chase: The hosts suffered early setbacks at 7/2, but Parvez Hossain Emon and Towhid Hridoy rebuilt calmly.
- Emon’s unbeaten 56 (five sixes, three fours in 39 balls) was the backbone of a chase that ended at 112/3 in just 15.3 overs.
- The 73-run partnership between Emon and Hridoy was crucial, overpowering Pakistan’s bowling threat.
- Bangladesh sealed the win with 27 balls remaining.
Turning Points
Early Bangladesh wickets put pressure on the chase, but Pakistan lost momentum as their fielding dropped critical chances and their bowlers (outside Salman Mirza) failed to maintain discipline.
Bangladesh’s ground fielding and aggressive bowling during the Pakistani collapse set up the match in the first half.
What This Means for the Series
Bangladesh’s victory is significant—their only fourth T20I win over Pakistan in 23 encounters, but a timely morale booster. Despite history favoring Pakistan, this performance showed Bangladesh’s readiness and growing capability on home soil. With World Cup 2026 preparations underway, both teams will be under the microscope for consistency and adaptability throughout the series.
What’s Next?
- Next T20I: Tuesday, July 22, at the same venue in Dhaka.
- Bangladesh will look to capitalize on their momentum, while Pakistan need a sharp response to keep their series hopes alive.