Cricket fans witnessed a thrilling upset in the first T20I of the series between Pakistan and Bangladesh on July 20, 2025, at the Shere Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka. The home side dominated with both ball and bat to register a commanding seven-wicket victory, taking a 1–0 lead in the three-match series. This was a landmark win for Bangladesh, as it was the first time in history they bowled out Pakistan in a T20 International.
After being asked to bat first, Pakistan crumbled under disciplined Bangladeshi bowling, managing only 110 runs in 19.3 overs. This marked one of Pakistan’s lowest T20I totals and reflected a lack of planning and composure at the crease. Only Fakhar Zaman showed some resistance, scoring 44 off 34 balls, while the rest of the lineup failed to support him. Notably, just three players reached double figures. Miscommunication and poor shot selection led to wickets falling at regular intervals. A crucial run-out of Hasan Nawaz further dented Pakistan’s hopes of setting a competitive target.
The star of the bowling attack was Mustafizur Rahman, who delivered a masterclass in control and precision. He finished with stunning figures of 2 for 6 in four overs, making life miserable for Pakistan’s batters. His early breakthroughs derailed Pakistan’s momentum and pushed them into a defensive shell. Supporting him, Taskin Ahmed grabbed 3 for 22, including two key wickets in the powerplay. The Bangladeshi bowlers, backed by tight fielding, maintained pressure throughout, not allowing Pakistan to settle.
Chasing 111 for victory, Bangladesh started confidently. Despite losing an early wicket, they remained unfazed. Parvez Hossain Emon led the charge with a classy knock of 56* off 39 balls, which included five sixes and three boundaries. His shot selection and composure underlined a maturing Bangladeshi batting lineup. He was ably supported by Towhid Hridoy, who chipped in with 36 runs. The duo stitched together a 73-run partnership that sealed the match. Bangladesh reached the target in just 15.3 overs, finishing at 112/3 and securing a historic win.
Litton Das, Bangladesh’s captain, made an excellent decision to bowl first, taking advantage of early conditions. His bowlers responded with discipline, sticking to tight lines and exploiting Pakistan’s weaknesses. Das’s field placements and rotation of bowlers kept constant pressure on the visitors. On the other hand, Pakistan’s new captain Salman Agha seemed unsure with field settings and batting order decisions. The team looked out of sync, with poor communication and little energy in the field.
This loss will surely prompt serious introspection in the Pakistan camp. Their over-dependence on individual performances and a lack of middle-order depth are glaring issues. Pakistan’s batting collapsed despite having experienced players in the squad. The absence of a solid game plan and poor intent will be a concern as they prepare for the second T20I.
For Bangladesh, this match marks a high point in their T20 history. Beating Pakistan in such dominant fashion sends a strong message to future opponents. With bowlers like Mustafizur and Taskin in form and young batters stepping up, the Tigers look like a well-rounded unit.
The second T20I will be played on July 22, 2025, again in Dhaka. Pakistan will be desperate to bounce back, while Bangladesh will look to seal the series. All eyes will be on how the green shirts respond to this setback, and whether they can regain momentum in time.
Bangladesh’s emphatic win in the first T20I didn’t just break records it shifted the balance of power in a long-standing rivalry. With exceptional bowling, sharp fielding, and a calm chase, Bangladesh outclassed Pakistan in every department. As the series progresses, this result sets the tone for what promises to be a hard-fought battle between two passionate cricketing nations.
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