The T20I series between Pakistan and Bangladesh kicks off with the first match scheduled to be played on May 28, 2025, at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, starting at 8:30 PM IST. This is the first of the three-match series, and both sides will be aiming to start the tour on a high. The match will be live-streamed on FanCode and broadcast on Sony Sports Network.
Team Overviews
Pakistan, playing at home, will be the clear favorites heading into the contest. Their side is filled with powerful batters and dangerous bowlers who can dominate in familiar conditions. Under the captaincy of Salman Ali Agha, Pakistan’s focus will be on setting the tone for the series with an aggressive performance.
On the other hand, Bangladesh arrives with a mix of experienced and young players, led by Litton Das, who will also take the gloves behind the stumps. The visitors will be eager to test their bench strength and look for new combinations ahead of the T20 World Cup next year.
PAK vs BAN Head-to-Head Record
The two sides have met 19 times in T20Is, with Pakistan winning 16 matches, while Bangladesh have managed just 3 wins. This dominant record gives Pakistan a psychological edge, especially on home soil.
Probable Playing XIs
Pakistan Probable XI:
Saim Ayub, Fakhar Zaman, Mohammad Haris (wk), Hasan Nawaz, Shadab Khan, Salman Ali Agha (c), Khushdil Shah, Naseem Shah, Mohammad Wasim Jr., Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed
Bangladesh Probable XI:
Tanzid Hasan, Soumya Sarkar, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Parvez Hossain Emon, Litton Das (c & wk), Towhid Hridoy, Mahedi Hasan, Rishad Hossain, Hasan Mahmud, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Nahid Rana
Pitch Report – Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
The pitch at Gaddafi Stadium is known for producing high-scoring games. Batters enjoy the even bounce and pace, and the short boundaries make it easier to clear the ropes. The team winning the toss may look to bowl first due to possible dew in the second innings, though stats also show that teams batting first here often post match-winning totals. A first-innings score in the range of 210-220 could be expected, especially given the firepower both teams have.
Weather Forecast
The weather in Lahore is expected to remain clear, with temperatures ranging between 29°C to 40°C. There is no forecast for rain, ensuring a full game.
Key Players to Watch
Pakistan:
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Fakhar Zaman – A power-hitter who can give Pakistan a blazing start.
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Shadab Khan – His all-round ability will be vital, especially with his leg-spin in the middle overs.
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Naseem Shah – Raw pace and sharp bounce make him a potential game-changer.
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Salman Ali Agha – The skipper will be key in holding the innings together.
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Abrar Ahmed – Mystery spin could trouble the Bangladeshi batters.
Bangladesh:
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Litton Das – The skipper will carry the batting responsibility at the top.
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Parvez Hossain Emon – Known for his fearless approach and big hitting.
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Najmul Hossain Shanto – Anchors the innings well and can rotate strike efficiently.
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Rishad Hossain – A rising spin bowler to watch.
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Nahid Rana – Can extract pace and bounce on a good wicket.
Probable Match Scenarios
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If Pakistan bat first, they will aim for a score above 200, with Fakhar and Haris setting the tone and the bowlers defending it with pace and spin.
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If Bangladesh bat first, they will need a strong powerplay and someone like Litton or Emon to bat deep. However, facing Pakistan’s strong pace attack in the death overs could be challenging.
Match Prediction
Pakistan holds the upper hand in all departments – experience, home conditions, and a better head-to-head record. Bangladesh, while talented, may find it difficult to overcome Pakistan’s powerful lineup in Lahore. Unless Bangladesh produces something extraordinary, Pakistan is expected to win the first T20I.
Prediction: Pakistan to win the 1st T20I.