Pakistan wrapped up their three-match T20I series in Dhaka on a high note, defeating Bangladesh by 74 runs in the third and final match on Thursday. The victory came courtesy of a blistering half-century by opener Sahibzada Farhan and a clinical bowling display from young pacer Salman Mirza.
Having already lost the series with back-to-back defeats, Pakistan made a strong comeback. Farhan, replacing Fakhar Zaman in the lineup, played a dominant innings of 63 off just 41 balls. His knock included six fours and five towering sixes, anchoring Pakistan’s total of 178-7.
He was well-supported by Hasan Nawaz, who smashed a quickfire 33 off 17 deliveries. The pair helped Pakistan recover from their poor showings in the earlier matches, where they managed only 110 and 125.
With the ball, it was Salman Mirza who stole the show. In only his third international appearance, the young pacer struck early and often, finishing with impressive figures of 3-20. His fiery opening spell dismantled Bangladesh’s top order and set the tone for a dominant bowling performance.
Bangladesh, chasing 179, were bowled out for 104 in just 16.4 overs. Mohammad Saifuddin’s unbeaten 35 was the only notable contribution as wickets kept tumbling. Faheem Ashraf chipped in with 2-13 while Mohammad Nawaz sealed the win by claiming the final two wickets.
Despite the loss, Bangladesh claimed their first-ever T20I series victory over Pakistan, having already secured the opening two matches. For this final clash, they rested several key players, including pace spearhead Mustafizur Rahman.
The match also highlighted Pakistan’s bench strength, with Farhan and Mirza stepping up to deliver standout performances. While the series ends in Bangladesh’s favor, Pakistan’s convincing win in the third T20 serves as a reminder of their depth and potential heading into future fixtures.