Dhaka: With the highly anticipated second T20I of the Pakistan vs Bangladesh series about to tip off at Sher‑e‑Bangla Stadium, today’s toss saw Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha winning the crucial coin flip. In a strategic move aimed at keeping the momentum in their favour, Agha elected to bowl first—a decision reflecting confidence in his bowling arsenal and the prevailing conditions.
“We’re seeing a good, batting‑friendly pitch later in the evening,” Agha remarked. “Putting Bangladesh in means we can try and exploit the powerplay overs and chase under lights.” Pakistan’s head coach Mike Hesson echoed the sentiment, noting that early wickets could swing the game decisively in Pakistan’s favour.
Pakistan made only one change following a narrow seven‑wicket loss in the opener, introducing debutant leg‑spinner Ahmed Daniyal in a direct swap for Abrar Ahmed. The spin‑heavy pitch provided a convicting argument for the tweak.
Bangladesh, trailing 0–1 in the series, responded with two changes of their own. Opener Naim Sheikh replaces Tanzid Hasan, and pace bowler Shoriful Islam comes in for Taskin Ahmed. Captain Litton Das emphasised the urgency of getting off to a strong start, aiming to shift the series momentum at home.
This match marks the second of three T20Is, all staged in Dhaka from July 20–24 as part of both teams’ final tune‑up ahead of the 2025 Asia Cup and the 2026 T20 World Cup. The decision to bowl first suggests Pakistan are leaning into the pitch’s evening progression and hoping to chase under controlling conditions.
Key Match Facts
- Venue: Sher‑e‑Bangla National Stadium, Dhaka
- Toss Winner: Pakistan (Salman Ali Agha) – elected to field
- Pakistan Changes: Ahmed Daniyal in for Abrar Ahmed
- Bangladesh Changes: Naim Sheikh, Shoriful Islam in; Tanzid Hasan, Taskin Ahmed out
Outlook
Expect Pakistan’s seamers—Haris Rauf, Abbas Afridi—and the spin duo of Daniyal and Mohammad Nawaz to shine in early and middle phases. Bangladesh will look to their renowned top order and spinners like Mahedi Hasan to deliver on pressure moments.
As the stadium fills and anticipation builds, the toss-winning decision to bowl first could prove the tactical edge Pakistan needs to level the series. Stay tuned—this game promises thrills under the Dhaka lights.
