Pakistan Dominates Bangladesh in Rain-affected ODI

Pakistan secured their second consecutive victory over Bangladesh in the ODI series, defeating them by 128 runs through the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern method at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium. The match, which took an unexpected turn due to a two-hour rain and hailstorm delay, saw Maaz Sadaqat emerge as Pakistan’s standout player with a blistering 75.

Despite Bangladesh’s spirited start in their chase of 243, which was revised after the storm interrupted play, they crumbled under the pressure. The collapse began early when Tanzid Hasan fell to Shaheen Afridi and Saif Hassan was caught off Mohammad Wasim Jr., leaving a precarious position for the hosts.

Bangladesh’s struggle intensified before the players were forced from the field by a sudden thunderstorm accompanied by hailstones, with Najmul Hossain Shanto struggling at 27 for 3. When play resumed, Litton Das attempted to revive the chase but was eventually caught by Maaz Sadaqat off his own bowling.

The Bangladesh lineup continued to falter as Tawhid Hridoy made a brief 28 before being dismissed and Afif Hossain’s partnership of 14 with Rizwan ended with Sadaqat adding to the hosts’ woes. Captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz managed just one run in the innings, setting up a disastrous finish for Bangladesh.

The Pakistan bowlers dominated, with Haris Rauf and Maaz Sadaqat each claiming three wickets. Their impressive bowling performance complemented an aggressive start from Sahibzada Farhan Sahib and Sadaqat, who shared a 109-run partnership to build the early scorecard. The momentum shifted when Agha top-scored with his 64 off 62 balls but was run out by Mehidy Hasan Miraz, leading to animated reactions on the field.

Salman Agha later added 43 runs with Mohammad Rizwan before being dismissed, while Leg-spinner Rishad Hossain performed well, taking three wickets for 56. The revised target of 243 proved a mountain too high for Bangladesh, who finished their innings at 114 in 23.3 overs, ultimately proving Pakistan’s victory over them.

With this win, Pakistan have now drawn the series level at 1-1 and face a crucial final match on Sunday to secure the series.