Pakistan’s batsman Sahibzada Farhan marked his return to international cricket with a scintillating career-best 74, powering the hosts to a commanding 57-run victory over Bangladesh in the second T20 International at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium. This win sealed the three-match series 2-0 for Pakistan, their first series triumph since beating Zimbabwe last December.
Batting first, Pakistan posted a strong total of 201 for 6, with Hasan Nawaz complementing Farhan’s innings by scoring a quick unbeaten 51. Farhan, back in the national team after impressive performances in the Pakistan Super League, played with flair and confidence, smashing six sixes and five fours during his 41-ball innings. Despite a shaky start, including a dropped catch, he quickly settled and dominated the Bangladesh bowlers, hitting key boundaries and sixes, especially targeting Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Tanzim Hasan Sakib.
Fellow opener Saim Ayub’s early dismissal did not slow Pakistan’s momentum, as Mohammad Haris supported Farhan well with powerful shots, including a six over midwicket. After reaching a rapid half-century off 29 balls, Farhan continued to attack aggressively until his dismissal in the 14th over, caught behind off Rishad Hossain. Captain Salman Ali Agha and Hasan Nawaz kept the scoring brisk, ensuring Pakistan crossed the 200-run mark.
Bangladesh’s response began positively with Tanzim Hasan Sakib hitting boundaries and sixes, giving them hope. However, Pakistan’s bowlers quickly took control. Spinner Abrar Ahmed was the pick of the bowlers, claiming 3 wickets for 19 runs, dismantling the middle order and triggering a collapse. Despite Tanzim’s valiant 50 and a century later in the innings, Bangladesh lost wickets at crucial intervals and were eventually bowled out for 144.
The disciplined bowling display, including key wickets from Haris Rauf, Shadab Khan, and Abrar Ahmed, ensured Bangladesh never threatened Pakistan’s total seriously. The hosts’ fielding was sharp, highlighted by diving catches and tight run-saving efforts. This comprehensive win underscored Pakistan’s growing depth and balance in the T20 format, with Farhan’s return injecting fresh energy into the batting lineup.
Pakistan’s victory boosts their confidence ahead of upcoming international fixtures, while Bangladesh will need to regroup and address their middle-order vulnerabilities. Sahibzada Farhan’s match-winning innings sent a clear message about his intent and form, promising exciting prospects for Pakistan cricket.
