Pakistan bounced back in emphatic fashion to level the three-match ODI series against Bangladesh, cruising to a 128-run victory (DLS method) in the second ODI after suffering a heavy defeat in the opener.
The standout was youngster Maaz Sadaqat, who produced a match-winning all-round display. He struck his maiden ODI fifty, smashing 75 off 46 balls with six fours and five sixes, and then delivered with the ball by taking three key wickets in a sharp five-over spell, conceding just 23 runs. He was later named Player of the Match.
Bangladesh won the toss and chose to field, aiming to repeat their dominance from the first ODI. This time, however, Pakistan’s top order came out with clear intent.
Maaz Sadaqat and Sahibzada Farhan got Pakistan off to a fast start, setting the tone early. The innings was then steadied and accelerated by Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha, who helped Pakistan build towards a competitive total.
Agha’s knock ended in controversy after he was dismissed via a run-out at the non-striker’s end, a moment that sparked debate over the spirit and timing of the dismissal. Regardless, Pakistan maintained their momentum and finished on 275.
Defending 275, Pakistan’s bowlers dominated from the outset. Captain Shaheen Shah Afridi struck early with two wickets, while Haris Rauf spearheaded the attack with three scalps. Faheem Ashraf and Wasim Jr chipped in with one wicket apiece, and Maaz added his three to complete the rout.
Bangladesh were eventually bowled out for 114 in 23.3 overs, handing Pakistan a convincing win that squared the series heading into the decider.
