Pakistan seek to level ODI series as Bangladesh opt to bowl in Dhaka

DHAKA: Pakistan are aiming to bounce back in the second One-day International (ODI) against Bangladesh after suffering a heavy defeat in the series opener at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium. The match, held on Friday, sees the visitors in a must-win situation to keep the three-match series alive.

In the first ODI, Bangladesh delivered a commanding performance, defeating Pakistan by eight wickets. Fast bowler Nahid Rana, 23, was the standout performer for the hosts, claiming a career-best five wickets for 24 runs. This effort played a crucial role in dismantling the Shaheen Shah Afridi-led Pakistan side.

Pakistan captain Shaheen Shah Afridi has expressed confidence in his young squad's ability to recover from the initial setback. He emphasized the team's determination to level the series at the same venue.

The ongoing series marks Pakistan's return to ODI cricket in Bangladesh after an 11-year hiatus. The last time Pakistan played a 50-over series in Bangladesh was under Azhar Ali's captaincy, when they were swept 3-0 by the hosts.

Looking ahead, Pakistan are using this series as an opportunity to rebuild and prepare for the ICC 2027 World Cup, which will be held in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia during October and November. Since their victory in the 2017 Champions Trophy, Pakistan have faced challenges in ICC tournaments, making this series an important step in their preparations.

At the toss for the second ODI, Bangladesh captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz won and elected to bowl first against Pakistan. Both captains, Shaheen Afridi and Mehidy Hasan Miraz, were present for the toss at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium.

With Bangladesh leading the series 1-0, the pressure is on Pakistan to deliver a strong performance and avoid another series defeat on Bangladeshi soil.