Despite losing both openers early, Pakistan powered their way to 200 for the first time in Lahore, dismantling Bangladesh’s bowling attack with a spirited batting display.
After opting to bat first, the decision raised eyebrows when both aggressive openers fell within the first two overs. At 5/2, questions were already being asked about whether Pakistan had misread the conditions. But by the end of the innings, those doubts were silenced as the hosts posted a commanding total of 201 — even though there was only one half-century in the entire innings. Several players chipped in, and it was this collective effort that brought immense satisfaction to stand-in captain Salman Ali Agha.
Winning the toss on Wednesday at the Gaddafi Stadium, Salman chose to bat first — a decision that Bangladesh captain Litton Das admitted matched their own preference to bowl. The plan seemed to backfire instantly. Saim Ayub departed in the first over, followed by Fakhar Zaman in the next. Pakistan were suddenly reeling at 5/2.
But Salman himself stepped up to validate his decision with a superb half-century. While he was the only one to reach fifty, support came from others with impactful T20-style cameos. Pakistan weathered the early storm and built up a match-winning total of 201, eventually defeating Bangladesh by 37 runs.
After the match, Salman expressed his delight at the team’s comeback after the shaky start.
“It was an outstanding innings after losing two wickets for five runs,” he said. “Everyone contributed in their own way and showed great intent. That’s exactly what we ask from them.”
It truly was a combined effort. Salman was the only batter to reach fifty — scoring 56 off 34 — but didn’t play a long innings. His knock stabilized the innings after the early blows. Mohammad Haris, who came in at No. 3, counterattacked with a quickfire 31 off 18 balls, which helped shift the momentum. Hasan Nawaz added further impetus with 44 off 22, and Shadab Khan delivered a brilliant late flourish with 48 off 25.
No one faced more than 35 deliveries. Only one half-century was made. Yet, each innings made a difference. And for the first time, Pakistan crossed the 200-run mark in a T20 at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium.
Salman reiterated what he expects from his team in every game:
“This is what we want — a complete team performance. Whether it’s batting, bowling, or fielding, we want everyone to contribute something. We don’t necessarily need 80s or 90s. Of course, it’s great if someone gets there, but more important is that everyone steps up and puts pressure on the opponent, whether it’s with the bat, the ball, or even in the field.”
The second match of the series is scheduled for Friday.
