Date: July 20, 2025
Venue: Shere Bangla National Stadium, Dhaka
Time: 5:30 PM IST / 5:00 PM PKT
Match Overview
Pakistan and Bangladesh are set to clash in the first T20I of their three-match series in Dhaka on July 20. This much-anticipated series will serve as vital preparation for both sides ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup next year. Both teams have fielded experimental squads featuring young talent, aiming to build bench strength and test combinations.
With Pakistan’s history of dominance over Bangladesh in T20Is, the visitors enter the match as favourites, but the hosts are in good form and will back themselves, especially on home turf.
Team Overview
Pakistan
Pakistan is being led by middle-order batter Salman Ali Agha, marking a new era of experimentation and youth. The squad lacks some major senior players like Babar Azam, Rizwan, and Shaheen Afridi, giving the youngsters a golden chance to shine.
Key players include Fakhar Zaman, who brings experience and firepower at the top, and Mohammad Haris, known for his aggressive strokeplay. The bowling attack is spin-heavy with Abrar Ahmed and Sufyan Muqeem, while Mohammad Abbas Afridi adds pace and wicket-taking ability.
Bangladesh
Bangladesh is captained by Litton Das, who is under pressure to deliver both with the bat and as leader. They recently secured a morale-boosting T20I win over Sri Lanka, and the squad features a good mix of youth and experience.
The explosive opening pair of Tanzid Hasan Tamim and Mohammad Naim will be key. Shoriful Islam and Mustafizur Rahman bring pace and swing, while Shak Mahedi Hasan is expected to lead the spin attack after his standout performances in the last series.
Head-to-Head in T20Is
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Matches Played: 17
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Pakistan Wins: 15
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Bangladesh Wins: 2
Pakistan enjoys a dominant record, but Bangladesh will be eyeing an upset at home.
Pitch Report – Shere Bangla National Stadium, Dhaka
The Dhaka pitch is known for assisting spinners, especially in the second innings. Batting can be tricky if the ball starts gripping early. Dew may play a role in the evening, making chasing slightly easier.
Expected Score: 150–160 could be competitive.
Toss Factor: Win toss, bowl first.
Weather Report
There’s a 94% chance of rain, with temperatures hovering between 27°C to 33°C. The match could face interruptions, and a shortened game cannot be ruled out.
Key Battles to Watch
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Saim Ayub vs Tanzim Hasan Sakib – A young gun battle with Saim’s fearless hitting against Tanzim’s sharp seamers.
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Fakhar Zaman vs Shak Mahedi Hasan – Fakhar’s experience versus Shak’s tactical off-spin.
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Litton Das vs Abrar Ahmed – A captain’s test against a mystery spinner.
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Tanzid Hasan vs Mohammad Abbas Afridi – Form versus pace; whoever wins this can set the tone.
Probable Playing XIs
Pakistan XI
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Saim Ayub
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Fakhar Zaman
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Salman Ali Agha (c)
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Mohammad Haris (wk)
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Khushdil Shah
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Faheem Ashraf
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Mohammad Nawaz
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Mohammad Abbas Afridi
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Abrar Ahmed
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Sufyan Muqeem
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Salman Mirza
Bangladesh XI
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Tanzid Hasan Tamim
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Mohammad Naim
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Litton Das (c & wk)
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Towhid Hridoy
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Mehidy Hasan Miraz
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Shamim Hossain Patwary
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Shak Mahedi Hasan
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Nasum Ahmed
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Mustafizur Rahman
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Shoriful Islam
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Tanzim Hasan Sakib
Match Prediction
With the Dhaka pitch offering assistance to spin and the weather likely to play a part, the team that adapts better will hold the edge. Pakistan’s younger squad may lack experience but has fearless players who can make a mark. Bangladesh, however, will bank on home conditions and their recent winning momentum.
Prediction: If rain allows a full game, Pakistan may edge out Bangladesh due to better bowling depth. But if it’s a shortened game, Bangladesh’s familiarity with conditions could tilt the scales.
Toss Winner: Likely to bowl first
Match Winner (Probable): Pakistan (60-40 odds)