Pakistan captain Shaheen Shah Afridi said the team must improve its batting in the middle overs despite securing a dominant 128-run victory over Bangladesh in the second ODI of the three-match series at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium.
After being put in to bat first, Pakistan got off to a strong start. Openers Maaz Sadaqat and Sahibzada Farhan produced an impressive partnership, adding more than 100 runs within the first 13 overs.
However, the Pakistan then experienced a brief top-order collapse. Salman Ali Agha and Mohammad Rizwan stabilized the innings with a crucial 109-run partnership for the fourth wicket, putting Pakistan back in a commanding position.
Their dismissals in the 39th over triggered another collapse. Pakistan lost their remaining five wickets for just 43 runs in 57 balls and were eventually bowled out for 274.
Despite the late collapse, the total proved more than enough for Pakistan. Bangladesh were dismissed for just 114 in 23.3 overs after a two-hour rain interruption, allowing the Green Shirts to secure a comfortable victory.
Still, Shaheen Shah Afridi stressed that the team must address the issue of losing wickets in clusters, particularly during the middle overs.
“I think losing back-to-back wickets after a good opening stand is something we need to improve as a team,” Shaheen said during the post-match presentation.
The win marked a significant turnaround for Pakistan after they suffered an eight-wicket defeat in the series opener. That loss made the second match a must-win for the visitors.
“The last game didn’t go our way. The simple message was to go and play your natural game,” Shaheen said.
Pakistan’s standout performer in the match was emerging all-rounder Maaz Sadaqat. He followed up a blistering half-century with an economical bowling spell of 3 for 23 and was named Player of the Match.
Afridi also praised the youngster’s performance, saying the team was delighted with his contribution.
“I’m really happy for Maaz Sadaqat, the youngster had a very good game, and the whole team is pleased for him,” the captain said.
