Agha Credits Openers Farhan and Ayub for Strong Start Against Bangladesh

DHAKA: Following Pakistan’s convincing 75-run triumph over Bangladesh in the final T20I at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium on Thursday, Pakistan’s captain, Salman Ali Agha, lauded his team’s resilience. He noted that the victory demonstrated their desired team ethos.

After being put in to bat, the visiting team posted a total of 178/7, propelled by Sahibzada Farhan’s half-century, along with valuable contributions from Hasan Nawaz (33) and Mohammad Nawaz (27).

The opener, Sahibzada Farhan, led Pakistan’s batting performance with 63 runs from 41 balls, including six boundaries and five sixes.

In response, Bangladesh’s batting lineup struggled to reach 104 runs before being dismissed in the 17th over while pursuing a target of 179 runs. This score marked their third-lowest total against Pakistan in the T20 format.

Mohammad Saifuddin, a bowling all-rounder, was the highest scorer for the home side with a courageous 35 off 34 deliveries. Mohammad Naim (10) was the only other batsman to achieve a double-digit score.

Left-arm pacer Salman Mirza stood out as Pakistan’s most effective bowler, securing three wickets for 19 runs in his four overs. Faheem Ashraf and Nawaz each claimed two wickets, while Ahmed Daniyal, Hussain Talat, and captain Salman Ali Agha each took one.

Agha reflected on his team’s performance in the third T20I, which prevented a series whitewash, emphasizing its embodiment of the team’s aspirational character in any situation.

During the post-match presentation, Agha stated, “Very proud, this is what we talked about as a team, no matter what situation we are in, we want to show character.”

Farhan was named Player of the Match for his half-century, as he had not been selected for the first two T20Is, which Bangladesh had won. The skipper praised Farhan and his opening partner, Saim Ayub, for their efforts in positioning Pakistan favorably during the initial six overs.

Agha remarked, “The way Sahibzada batted was outstanding, heartening and pleasing to see, Saim as well. First six overs they put us ahead.”

Agha also commended pacers Salman, Hasan, Daniyal, and Nawaz for their significant roles in the victory. He concluded, “Hasan batted really well and Nawaz played an outstanding cameo. Salman was outstanding, took wickets upfront and the way Dani (Daniyal) bowled, very happy with them.”