Darwin: Bangladesh A suffered a 79-run defeat to Pakistan Shaheens in their Top End T20 series opening game by putting up a reckless batting show at TIO Stadium in Darwin, Australia today. Batting first, Pakistan Shaheens compiled a hefty 227-4 and Bangladesh found themselves wanting in chasing the big total. They were eventually wrapped up for 148 in 16.5 overs with Saif Hasan only showing some composure at the crease to hit a 32-ball 57, smoting five fours and three sixes in his knock.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, opener Jisan Alam was the other batter to put up some resistance when he hit 33. After the early departure of Naim Sheikh who made just 5, Jisan and Saif batted in aggressive fashion to keep the runs flowing. They combined for 86 off just 38 deliveries as Bangladesh appeared to seize control before Shaheens bowlers got back with a bang. Ahmad Sadaqat broke the partnership by removing Jisan after which Bangladesh A batters crumbled under pressure to lose wickets at regular intervals. Saad Masud damaged Bangladesh most with figures of 3-30.
Earlier, opener Yasir Khan led the charge for Pakistan Shaheens with a 40-ball 62, an innings laced with seven fours and two sixes. His fellow opener Khawaja Mohammad Nafay hammered 61 off 31, hitting eight fours and two sixes. The openers paved the platform of a big total, adding 118 runs in just 11.1 overs after Pakistan Shaheens captain Irfan Khan opted to bat first. Syed Abdul Samad gave the late impetus with an unbeaten 27-ball 56, striking one four and five sixes and pushing the total past 200. Irfan Khan was the other notable scorer with 25 off 12. Rakibul Hasan, Hasan Mahmud, and Mahfuzur Rahman Rabby took one wicket apiece for Bangladesh A.