DUBAI: Pakistan set a target of 136 against Bangladesh in a high-pressure Asia Cup 2025 Super Four match at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Thursday.
After winning the toss and opting to field in this virtual semi-final, Bangladesh took control early, restricting Pakistan to a modest total with a disciplined bowling display. Regular fall of wickets disrupted Pakistan’s rhythm, causing uncertainty and pressure throughout their innings.
Pakistan’s innings never quite got going after losing two quick wickets inside two overs. Openers Sahibzada Farhan (4) and Saim Ayub (0) fell early, and despite a brief stand between Fakhar Zaman (13 off 20) and skipper Salman Ali Agha (19 off 23), the scoring rate stayed sluggish in the first half.
The middle order faltered under Bangladesh’s disciplined bowling. However, Mohammad Haris (31 off 23) and Mohammad Nawaz (25 off 15) injected some momentum late in the innings. Shaheen Afridi also played a cameo, smashing 19 off 13 balls, including two sixes, to push the total past 130. Faheem Ashraf remained unbeaten on 14, while Haris Rauf remained not out on 3.
For Bangladesh, it was an impressive bowling performance led by Taskin Ahmed, who claimed 3 wickets for 28 runs, including the key scalps of Farhan, Afridi, and Nawaz. Rishad Hossain, continuing his fine form, was economical and effective with 2 for 18, while Mahedi Hasan also chipped in with 2 for 28. The Tigers’ bowlers maintained tight lines and picked up regular wickets to prevent Pakistan from building any significant partnerships.
At a run rate of just 6.75, Pakistan’s total of 135 looks below par on a pitch that, while slightly two-paced, has seen better chases throughout the tournament. The win probability at the halfway mark favours Bangladesh heavily at 76.23%, with Pakistan’s chances dipping to just 23.77%, according to match forecasters.
With the ball now in Shaheen Afridi’s and Haris Rauf’s hands, Pakistan will hope for early breakthroughs to defend the modest total. Bangladesh, on the other hand, need a steady chase to seal a place in the final and set up a showdown with India.
