The stage is set for a compelling Twenty20 International series as Bangladesh take on Pakistan in the first of three matches at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur today (Sunday). The contest is scheduled to commence at 6:00 PM local time, with Bangladesh aiming to leverage their recent momentum against a side that has historically dominated them in the shortest format.
Pakistan hold a commanding head-to-head record against Bangladesh in T20Is, boasting 19 victories to Bangladesh's mere three. Their last encounter in Lahore in May saw Pakistan sweep the corresponding T20I series 3-0, with the final match featuring a perfectly timed chase that seemingly underscored the significant gulf between the two sides.
However, Bangladesh have experienced a notable upturn in fortunes since that whitewash. They recently secured their first-ever T20I series victory against Sri Lanka earlier this month, a triumph that has undoubtedly instilled a fresh wave of confidence within the camp. Furthermore, the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium holds positive memories for the Tigers; two of their three T20I wins against Pakistan have come at this very venue, with the only other victory occurring in Hangzhou during the 2023 Asian Games.
Bangladesh's batting unit, in particular, has shown promising signs of cohesion and aggression in their recent matches against Sri Lanka. Captain Litton Das enjoyed a welcome return to form after a prolonged slump, leading from the front with crucial runs. Shamim Hossain, Towhid Hridoy, and Tanzid Hasan also contributed significantly. Tanzid, in particular, came into his own in the third T20I against Sri Lanka, smashing a sparkling unbeaten 73, including six sixes, in a 133-run chase. His ability to loft bowlers down the ground with conviction, especially his standout shot over the covers, was a highlight. In that game, Tanzid also became the fastest Bangladeshi to reach five T20I half-centuries, achieving the feat in just 27 matches. With the ball, Rishad Hossain and Mahedi Hasan were among the wickets, while Mustafizur Rahman stepped up as the senior fast bowler, showcasing his experience.
Despite this renewed confidence, Bangladesh are still some way from finding consistent rhythm, particularly on the slow and low pitches typically found in Mirpur. Aggressive opener Parvez Hossain Emon, for instance, may face the biggest adjustment, needing to temper his natural attacking instincts to suit the conditions. The fast bowlers, Tanzim Hasan and Shoriful Islam, will also need to bring their 'A' games after a somewhat inconsistent period in recent months.
Pakistan, meanwhile, will likely look to maintain the aggressive approach that proved so effective in Lahore. Their batsmen wasted little time in attacking the Bangladeshi bowlers, while their bowlers and fielders delivered an improved showing throughout that series.
The visitors also benefit from recent local knowledge, with five members of their squad having played in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) over the last couple of seasons.
Khushdil Shah has the most experience at Mirpur among the Pakistani players, with 12 matches under his belt, while Mohammad Haris, Faheem Ashraf, Abrar Ahmed, and Abbas Afridi have also featured in the competition.
While Pakistan undoubtedly start this series as the favourites, Bangladesh typically thrive when they have a few wins under their belt. This newfound momentum, coupled with the home advantage, suggests that this series is unlikely to be a straightforward affair for the visitors. The Tigers will be eager to avenge their recent whitewash and make a strong statement on home turf.
