Pakistan opt to bowl first against Bangladesh in ODI series decider
Sports
The decisive encounter will be played today in Dhaka.
(Web Desk) - Pakistan won the toss and decided to bowl first against Bangladesh in the third and final ODI of the three-match series currently levelled 1-1.
The decisive encounter will be played today (Sunday) in Dhaka, with the teams set to take the field at 1:15pm Pakistan Standard Time. Both sides enter the match with momentum from contrasting performances in the opening two fixtures, setting up a high-stakes finale to the series.
Pakistan staged a remarkable comeback in the second ODI on Friday, producing a dominant performance to defeat Bangladesh by 128 runs under the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern method after rain interrupted the match.
Batting first, Pakistan were bowled out for 274 in 47.3 overs, posting a competitive total on a surface that initially favoured the batters. Bangladesh’s chase was later reduced to 32 overs due to heavy rain, leaving the hosts with a revised target of 243 runs.
However, Pakistan’s bowlers quickly seized control of the match, dismantling the Bangladeshi batting line-up with relentless accuracy and pace. Bangladesh were eventually dismissed for just 114 in 23.3 overs, handing Pakistan a comprehensive victory that levelled the series.
Pakistan’s fast-bowling attack played a key role in the collapse, with figures including Haris Rauf contributing to the relentless pressure that left the home side struggling to build partnerships.
All-rounder Maaz Sadaqat delivered one of the standout performances of the series in the second ODI, producing a dynamic display with both bat and ball. Sadaqat struck a rapid 75 runs off just 46 deliveries, injecting momentum into Pakistan’s innings at a crucial stage. His aggressive stroke play helped lift the visitors towards a strong total despite regular wickets falling around him.
The all-rounder later returned with the ball to claim three wickets, playing a decisive role in Bangladesh’s dramatic collapse during the chase. His match-winning contribution earned him the Player of the Match award and significantly shifted the momentum of the series back in Pakistan’s favour.
