Tigers begin ‘Bangla Wash T20I Tri-nation Series’ with defeat

Bangladesh's fragile batting lineup was once again exposed as the Tigers failed to chase a challenging total, suffering a 21-run defeat against Pakistan in the 'Bangla Wash T20I Tri-nation Series' opener at the Hagley Oval in Christchurch on Friday. 

A 50-run third-wicket stand between Liton Das and Afif Hossain and some lusty blows at the death from Yasir Ali were the highlights in batting for the Tigers. Despite Yasir's unbeaten 21-ball 42, Bangladesh were restricted to 146 for eight while in chase of a challenging 168-run target.   

Chasing a challenging total, the Tigers lost both their openers Mehedi Hasan Miraz and Sabbir Rahman inside the Powerplay. The makeshift opening duo could amount to just 25 runs. 

Miraz was the first one to fall, holing out to the fielder at deep square leg off a Mohammad Wasim delivery in the fifth over. Sabbir followed suit, departing in the very next over to leave the Tigers at a precarious 37 for two after 5.5 overs. 

Afif and Liton showed intent as they scored some valuable runs in the middle. Liton, in particular, looked to be in good touch, smashing a total of four boundaries and a beautifully timed straight six off leggie Shadab Khan during his 26-ball 35-run knock. 

Things went downhill for the Tigers once Liton departed to a Mohammad Nawaz delivery in the 13th over. Mosaddek Hossain was trapped in front by Nawaz the very next ball as Bangladesh found themselves at 87 for four after 12.4 overs. 

With the required rate going above 11 an over, Bangladesh could never bounce back as they kept losing wickets at regular intervals. Yasir's five boundaries and two maximums at the death on way to his career-best T20I score only helped Bangladesh reduce the margin of defeat.  

Earlier, Mohammad Rizwan continued his excellent form with the willow as he struck an unbeaten 78 to help Pakistan post a challenging 167 for five.