Bangladesh grabbed control of the series decider against Pakistan on Sunday as Tanzid Hasan hammered a commanding half-century at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur. The Tigers marched to 141 for one after 26 overs, riding a dominant opening stand that rattled Pakistan’s new-ball plans.
Captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz stuck with the same XI despite chatter around Soumya Sarkar’s return. That decision quickly paid off as the opening pair finally clicked after two quiet outings.
Tanzid and Saif Hassan attacked with purpose from the first over. Pakistan’s pace trio searched for early swing but the left-hander refused to wait around.
Tanzid launched the counterattack with clean strikes over the infield. Four towering sixes and three crisp boundaries dragged the momentum firmly towards Bangladesh.
The fifty arrived quickly and carried authority. Tanzid reached the milestone for the sixth time in his ODI career and his second in the series, underlining his growing comfort against Pakistan’s attack.
Saif played the foil perfectly at the other end. He soaked up pressure, rotated strike and allowed Tanzid to dictate the tempo while the scoreboard ticked past three figures.
The pair stitched together a 105-run opening stand that finally gave Bangladesh the platform they craved in this series. Pakistan’s bowlers suddenly looked short of answers.
Shaheen Shah Afridi eventually struck to break the stand. Saif attempted to launch him straight down the ground in the 19th over but missed completely as the stumps rattled behind him.
The dismissal ended a careful but valuable knock. Saif walked off after crafting 33 from 56 balls with three boundaries, leaving Bangladesh firmly in command.
Najmul Hossain Shanto then joined Tanzid and continued the calm rebuild. The left-handed duo nudged singles, punished loose balls and ensured Pakistan never regained rhythm.
After 26 overs, Bangladesh cruised to 141 for one. Tanzid stood unbeaten on 76 while Shanto quietly built support on 22.
