Ashraf Comments on Pitch Conditions Following T20I Defeat

MIRPUR: Following Pakistan’s loss to Bangladesh in the second T20I on Tuesday, all-rounder Faheem Ashraf has expressed his concerns regarding the pitch conditions at the Shere Bangla National Stadium. He suggested that recent weather patterns, including hot temperatures and rainfall, have contributed to the challenging surface.

During the post-match press briefing, Ashraf drew parallels between the current pitches and those encountered during the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL).

“The BPL typically occurs in December and January, when the weather is cooler. The current hot weather has resulted in markedly different pitches. Unlike the BPL, where there was less spin, grip, and pace, the ball is behaving differently now,” Ashraf noted.

Ashraf further highlighted how shifts in weather and ground conditions have influenced the pitch’s performance.

He explained that while BPL pitches tend to favor batting as the tournament progresses, the pitches in the ongoing series have been consistently unpredictable.

“In BPL matches, the presence of grass early on can make initial games somewhat difficult, but subsequently, the pitches become more conducive to batting. This series is different, as the surface hardens while retaining a softness underneath,” he added.

The 31-year-old also shared insights gained from discussions with the ground staff.

“According to the groundsmen, the recent rains may have disrupted their usual pitch preparation methods,” he revealed.

“The difference compared to the BPL is significant. Having played in both last year and this year, I can attest that the BPL pitches are superior to those we are currently playing on,” he concluded.

In the match, Bangladesh managed to score 133 before being bowled out in 20 overs, with Jaker Ali contributing a crucial 55 off 48 balls. Mahedi Hasan added a valuable 33 runs.

Pakistani bowlers showcased a strong performance, with debutant Ahmed Daniyal, Salman Mirza, and Abbas Afridi each taking two wickets. Mohammad Nawaz and Faheem Ashraf each secured one wicket.

While chasing a target of 134, Pakistan faced an early collapse, finding themselves at 15/5 within the powerplay. Despite Faheem Ashraf’s resilient 51 off 32 balls, which included four boundaries and a six, the team fell short of the target by eight runs.

Shoriful Islam of Bangladesh delivered an impressive bowling display, claiming 3/17 in his four overs, which contributed significantly to the team’s first-ever T20I series victory against Pakistan.