Key points
- Hasan Ali claimed his maiden five-wicket haul in T20s
- Bangladesh were dismissed for 164 in 19.2 overs
- Everyone contributed and took us past 200: Salman
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha hailed a complete team performance following their convincing 37-run victory against Bangladesh in the opening T20I of the three-match series at the Gaddafi Stadium on Wednesday.
Electing to bat first, the hosts posted a formidable total of 201 for 7 despite a shaky start, which saw them slump to 5 for 2 within the first two overs.
Agha led the recovery with a composed 56 off 34 balls, featuring eight boundaries and a six. He was well supported by wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Haris (31), Hasan Nawaz (44), and Shadab Khan (48), whose valuable contributions propelled Pakistan beyond the 200-run mark.
In reply, Bangladesh were dismissed for 164 in 19.2 overs, with Litton Das’s fighting 48 the only bright spot in an otherwise disappointing chase.
Five-wicket haul
Pacer Hasan Ali spearheaded Pakistan’s bowling effort, claiming his maiden five-wicket haul in T20 internationals.
Reflecting on the win, Agha praised the collective batting display that helped Pakistan recover from early setbacks and highlighted the importance of an all-round team performance.
“After being 5 for 2, it was brilliant to see everyone contribute and take us past 200,” Agha remarked.
“That’s exactly the sort of team effort we’re aiming for – solid performances in all three departments. We urge the players to believe in themselves and take the initiative,” he added.
Standout performance
Agha was full of praise for Hasan Ali’s standout performance, noting that many fans had compared it to his form during Pakistan’s triumphant 2017 ICC Champions Trophy campaign.
“Hasan Ali was outstanding – people are saying he’s bowling like it’s 2017 again. His hard work is clearly paying off, first in the PSL and now tonight,” Agha said.
When asked about the abundance of all-rounders in the squad, Agha, himself an all-rounder, described it as a real asset, saying it gives him multiple quality options.
“Our all-rounders are a genuine luxury. Even Saim Ayub can bowl his full four overs. Having so many quality all-rounders puts us in a very strong position. We’ll rest tomorrow and then regroup for the second match.”
