Haris’ 45-ball century headlines dominant 3rd T20I win in Lahore
Pakistan completed a 3-0 clean sweep over Bangladesh in the T20I series with a commanding seven-wicket win in the third and final match in Lahore. The match saw the highest aggregate score in the history of T20Is between the two sides, but it was Mohammad Haris who stole the show with a sensational hundred.
Put in to bat first, Bangladesh started brilliantly with openers Parvez Hossain Emon and Tanzid Hasan Tamim putting on a fiery partnership. Emon was the aggressor from the outset, smashing 66 off just 34 deliveries, including four sixes and seven boundaries. Tanzid supported well with a measured 42 from 32 balls. The duo powered Bangladesh to 101 inside 11 overs, raising hopes of a massive total.
However, the innings lost momentum after both openers fell in quick succession. Despite solid cameos from Litton Das, Towhid Hridoy, and a late push from Jaker Ali, Bangladesh managed 196 for 6 in their 20 overs. The score was competitive but not unassailable on a good batting track.
Pakistan’s chase got off to a shaky start as Mehidy Hasan Miraz struck in the first over, removing Sahibzada Farhan for just 1. But that was the only highlight for Bangladesh in the second innings. Mohammad Haris took charge and unleashed a breathtaking counterattack, racing to his maiden T20I century off just 46 balls. He struck 7 sixes and 8 fours in his explosive 107, leaving the Bangladesh bowling attack in tatters.
Haris received fine support from Saim Ayub, who made 45 from 29 balls. After his dismissal, Hasan Nawaz ensured there were no hiccups, finishing unbeaten on 26 off 13 deliveries. Pakistan reached the target with 16 balls to spare, closing the game at 197 for 3 in 17.2 overs.
Bangladesh’s bowlers struggled throughout. Rishad Hossain and Hasan Mahmud were particularly expensive, conceding 39 and 42 runs respectively in just three overs each, without picking up a wicket. Only Miraz stood out with figures of 2 for 26 from his three overs.
This win not only sealed the series whitewash for Pakistan but also underlined their dominance with both bat and ball. For Bangladesh, the series ended with more questions than answers ahead of future assignments.