Saif Hassan was earmarked to bat at number three against Afghanistan, with head coach Phil Simmons making the call before the series began. The decision paid off handsomely in the third T20, where Saif struck an unbeaten 64 from 38 balls to guide Bangladesh to a six-wicket win and a 3-0 series whitewash.
Bangladesh had struggled in the Asia Cup when regular number three Litton Das was sidelined by a side strain, with makeshift options Parvez Hossain Emon and Towhid Hridoy unable to deliver. With Litton also missing the Afghanistan series, Simmons turned to Saif, who had previously opened but carried experience in the middle order.
Saif admitted the shift was a challenge but said the clarity from Simmons helped him prepare. “It is an important position. In the last tournament I was opening, but before this series Phil Simmons gave me a clear plan. He told me I would be batting at number three, so I prepared myself accordingly,” he said after winning Player of the Match.
The right-hander had scored a duck and 18 in the first two games, but exploded in the decider with two fours and seven sixes. His innings not only sealed the clean sweep but also underlined his ability to adapt to one of the most crucial batting slots.
“I am happy that I could contribute to the team’s success,” Saif added. “It was a very good series for us and I hope we can maintain this form. For the past couple of years I have been batting in this style. I just try to enjoy my batting.”
