Dhaka: Bangladesh need 179 runs to achieve a historic series sweep against Pakistan after the visitors posted 178-7 in the third and final T20 match at Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium. The hosts are on the verge of securing their first T20 series win against Pakistan, having clinched victories in the first two matches by seven wickets and eight runs, respectively.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Pakistan's innings was anchored by opener Shahibzada Farhan, who scored an impressive 63 off 41 deliveries. Farhan, who came in for Fakhar Zaman, formed a solid partnership with Saim Ayub, adding 82 runs by the eighth over. This provided Pakistan with a stable start after being put in to bat by Bangladesh.
Saim Ayub contributed 21 runs off 15 balls, including two fours and a six, before being dismissed by Nasum Ahmed, who was among the five changes in the Bangladesh squad. Nasum finished his four-over spell with figures of 2-22, including the crucial wicket of Farhan, who was caught attempting a slog sweep after hitting six fours and five sixes.
Following Farhan's dismissal, Pakistan stood at 93-2 in the 12th over and seemed poised for a total exceeding 200. However, Bangladesh's bowlers, led by Taskin Ahmed, effectively curtailed the visitors' progress. Taskin claimed 3-38, making a strong comeback during the death overs after an erratic first spell. He dismissed Mohammad Haris for 5 and claimed the wicket of Mohammad Nawaz, who scored an aggressive 27 off 16 balls.
Shoriful Islam also contributed to Bangladesh's bowling effort by removing Hasan Nawaz, who scored a quick 33 off 17 balls. As Bangladesh steps onto the field to chase down the target, they are poised for a landmark series win, which would mark a significant achievement in their T20 history.