Dhaka, March 13, 2026 – Pakistan national cricket team kept their hopes alive in the three-match ODI series after defeating Bangladesh national cricket team by 128 runs in the second One-Day International at Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium on Friday.
The emphatic victory helped Pakistan level the series 1-1, setting up a decisive third ODI that will be played at the same venue on March 15, 2026.
Pakistan Post Competitive Total
Pakistan produced a stronger batting display compared to the first ODI and were bowled out for 274 runs after a solid start.
The opening pair provided early momentum with a 103-run partnership, laying the foundation for a competitive total. Young all-rounder Maaz Sadaqat impressed with a quick 75 off 46 balls, bringing up his maiden ODI half-century.
Later in the innings, Salman Ali Agha and Mohammad Rizwan added 109 runs for the fourth wicket, with Agha scoring a fine half-century.
However, Pakistan lost momentum after Agha’s controversial run-out and collapsed from 231/3 to 274 all out. For Bangladesh, Rishad Hossain was the standout bowler with three wickets, while Mehidy Hasan Miraz claimed two.
Pakistan Bowlers Dominate
Pakistan’s bowlers responded strongly to defend the total. Captain Shaheen Shah Afridi struck twice early to put Bangladesh under immediate pressure.
Mohammad Wasim Jr. also contributed with an early breakthrough before rain briefly interrupted play.
After the match resumed with a revised target of 243 runs in 32 overs, Sadaqat starred with the ball as well, claiming 3 wickets for 23 runs. Haris Rauf also delivered an impressive spell, taking three wickets, while Faheem Ashraf picked up one.
Bangladesh Collapse in Chase
Bangladesh’s chase got off to a poor start as the hosts slipped to 27/3 in 6.3 overs before rain and lightning halted the game.
After the restart, Litton Das and Towhid Hridoy tried to rebuild the innings with a 58-run partnership.
But once Litton was dismissed, the batting lineup collapsed under the rising required run rate. Bangladesh were eventually bowled out for just 114 runs, handing Pakistan a commanding victory.
Maaz Sadaqat Named Player of the Match
Sadaqat was named Player of the Match for his outstanding all-round performance. In addition to scoring 75 runs, he took 3 wickets, playing a key role in Pakistan’s comeback.
The young cricketer said he felt more confident after his debut match and credited the team’s approach of playing natural cricket for the turnaround.
Captains React
Pakistan captain Shaheen Afridi said the team bounced back well after the first match setback.
“We didn’t bat well in the previous game, but today we backed ourselves and played our natural game. The surface was better and using four seamers worked for us,” Afridi said, while also noting that the middle order still needs improvement.
Bangladesh skipper Mehidy Hasan Miraz admitted his side failed to capitalize on a good batting surface.
“Our top order didn’t get runs and we didn’t execute well in the first ten overs. We need to improve as a batting unit,” he said.
Series Decider on March 15
With the series now tied 1-1, the third and final ODI will be played again at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur on Sunday, March 15.
The decisive match is expected to deliver a thrilling finish to the series, with both teams aiming to secure the trophy.