In a gripping finale at the DXC Arena, Pakistan Shaheens secured a thrilling 148-run victory over Bangladesh A in the final hour of their four-day match.
This hard-fought win was underpinned by a stellar bowling performance from Mehran Mumtaz and Shahnawaz Dahani, who combined to claim seven wickets.
Bangladesh A’s Determined Fightback
Faced with a daunting target of 408 runs, Bangladesh A began their chase with confidence, as their openers formed a promising fifty-run partnership. However, Shahnawaz Dahani provided a crucial breakthrough by dismissing Shadman Islam.
The departure of the openers brought Parvez Hossain Emon and Amite Hasan to the crease. The pair fought hard, constructing a 57-run stand that tested the Shaheens’ bowlers. Mehran Mumtaz, though, managed to dismiss both Emon and Hasan, keeping the Shaheens’ hopes alive.
Shaheens Seal the Win
As the match neared its climax, Shahadat Hossain and Amite Hasan looked poised to wrestle control of the game from the Shaheens with a threatening partnership. Just when Bangladesh A seemed to be on the verge of a turnaround, Dahani struck again, removing Hasan.
The fall of Hasan was followed by Ariful Islam’s dismissal, and the Shaheens seized their opportunity. With only five wickets in hand for Bangladesh A, Mehran Mumtaz stepped up once more, dismissing Shahadat Hossain and Hasan Murad in quick succession.
Despite a valiant effort from Bangladesh A’s lower order, they could not prevent the inevitable as wickets continued to tumble, handing Pakistan Shaheens a well-deserved victory.
Key Performers and Upcoming Fixture
Mehran Mumtaz was the standout bowler with a four-wicket haul, while Shahnawaz Dahani contributed with three crucial wickets. Earlier in the match, Mohammad Huraira’s double century and Omair Bin Yousuf’s century provided the solid foundation needed for the Shaheens’ success.
The teams will reconvene for the second four-day match on Friday, 26 July, at the same venue, promising another exciting contest.