After the humiliation of being bowled out for 114 in the opening ODI, Pakistan responded with a far more complete performance, beating Bangladesh by 128 runs via DLS to square the series at 1-1.
Pakistan delivered the kind of response the series needed. Beaten heavily in the first ODI, they returned in Mirpur with greater intent and far more control, posting 274 before bowling Bangladesh out for 114 in a rain-affected chase reduced to 32 overs, with the revised target set at 243. The result gave Pakistan a 128-run DLS win and brought the three-match series back to level terms.
The innings was shaped by Maaz Sadaqat, whose 75 off 46 balls gave Pakistan early momentum and forced Bangladesh onto the back foot. Sahibzada Farhan added 31, while Salman Agha’s 64 and Mohammad Rizwan’s 44 gave the innings enough substance after the fast start. Bangladesh’s main returns with the ball came from Rishad Hossain, who took 3 for 56, and Mehidy Hasan Miraz, who finished with 2 for 34.
Source:ESPNcricinfo
Bangladesh never looked settled in reply. Pakistan’s seamers struck early, reducing the home side to 15 for 3, and although Litton Das made 41 and Towhid Hridoy contributed 28, the chase never recovered its shape. Bangladesh were eventually dismissed for 114 in 23.3 overs, with Haris Rauf and Maaz Sadaqat taking three wickets each.
Sadaqat’s all-round display made him the obvious difference-maker and earned him Player of the Match. Pakistan will be pleased not just with the margin of victory, but with the manner of it. After a flat and fragile showing in the series opener, this was sharper, more decisive cricket.
