Lahore, May 30, 2025: Returning opener Sahibzada Farhan and rising star Hasan Nawaz struck blistering half-centuries to propel Pakistan to a commanding total in the second T20I of the three-match series against Bangladesh at Gaddafi Stadium on Friday.
Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha’s decision to bat first paid dividends as the hosts posted an imposing 201/6 in their allotted 20 overs.
The innings began shakily, with left-handed opener Saim Ayub departing early for just four runs in the second over, leaving Pakistan at 12/1. However, Farhan was joined by wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Haris, and the pair soon turned the tide with a thrilling 103-run stand for the second wicket.
Farhan led the charge with an explosive 74 off 41 balls, featuring four boundaries and six towering sixes. Haris offered solid support, hammering 41 off 25 deliveries, including four fours and two sixes. Both batters fell in quick succession, momentarily slowing Pakistan’s momentum.
Captain Agha and Hasan Nawaz then stitched together a vital 45-run partnership for the fourth wicket. Agha contributed a quickfire 19 from 12 balls before being trapped lbw by Hasan Mahmud while attempting a ramp shot in the 16th over.
Hasan Nawaz continued to accelerate the scoring, adding 24 runs with Shadab Khan, who managed just seven off 10 balls before falling to Mahmud in the penultimate over. Hasan remained unbeaten, finishing with a dazzling 51 off 26 balls, including two fours and three sixes, anchoring Pakistan to a strong finish.
For Bangladesh, Tanzim Hasan Sakib and Hasan Mahmud claimed two wickets apiece, while Rishad Hossain took one.
With this imposing total on the board, Pakistan will look to level the series as they defend the target under lights in Lahore.
