Pakistan Shaheens secured a commanding 8-wicket victory over Bangladesh A in the first One-Day International (ODI) at Islamabad Club on Monday, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. Fast bowler Abbas Afridi was the star of the match, delivering a career-best performance by claiming 5 wickets for 38 runs. Usman Khan and Haseebullah contributed significantly with the bat, each scoring half-centuries to steer Pakistan to victory.
After winning the toss, Pakistan Shaheens’ captain Mohammad Haris chose to bowl first. Bangladesh A struggled to build momentum and were bowled out for 183 runs in 36 overs. Saif Hassan was the top scorer for Bangladesh, playing an aggressive knock of 58 runs, which included 10 fours and a six. Rishad Hossain chipped in with a quick 40 runs, hitting four boundaries and two sixes.
Abbas Afridi led Pakistan Shaheens’ bowling attack with his best-ever List A figures, surpassing his previous best of 5 for 51, achieved in 2018 against FATA while playing for Habib Bank. Mehran Mumtaz and Jehandad Khan also contributed by taking two wickets each.
In response, Pakistan Shaheens chased down the target with ease, reaching 184 for 2 in just 27.5 overs. Usman Khan played a scintillating innings, scoring 87 runs off 60 balls, including 8 fours and 5 sixes. He shared a crucial 129-run partnership for the second wicket with Haseebullah, who remained unbeaten on 73, hitting 7 fours and 2 sixes.
The second ODI between the two teams is scheduled for August 28, followed by the final match on August 30.
Brief Scores:
- Bangladesh A: 183 all out in 36 overs (Saif Hassan 58, Rishad Hossain 40; Abbas Afridi 5-38, Mehran Mumtaz 2-29, Jehandad Khan 2-51)
- Pakistan Shaheens: 184-2 in 27.5 overs (Usman Khan 87, Haseebullah 73*).
Result: Pakistan Shaheens won by 8 wickets.
Leave a Reply