Bangladesh’s campaign came to a heartbreaking end in Dubai as they fell short by 11 runs against Pakistan in what was virtually a semifinal. Chasing 136, the Tigers were bundled out for 124/9 in 20 overs despite a late fight from Shamim Hossain.
Pakistan, reduced to 49 for 5 after electing to bat, recovered through valuable lower-order cameos from Shaheen Afridi and Mohammad Nawaz. Shaheen, dropped thrice, smashed a couple of sixes, while Nawaz’s 25 off 13 proved crucial. Mohammad Haris also chipped in with 31 off 23. Taskin Ahmed (3/28) and Rishad Hossain (2/18) led Bangladesh’s charge, but sloppy fielding allowed Pakistan to finish at a competitive 135/8.
Bangladesh’s chase faltered right from the start. Parvez Hossain Emon fell for a duck in the opening over, and Shahin Afridi’s fiery new-ball burst dismantled the top order. Shamim Hossain (30 off 25) kept hopes alive with a couple of sixes, but once he holed out with 39 needed off 20 balls, the contest was effectively sealed. Haris Rauf (3/33) and Shaheen (3/17) ensured Pakistan’s dominance with the ball, supported by Saim Ayub’s tidy spell (2/16).
This was Bangladesh’s chance to reach an Asia Cup final for the first time in six years, but familiar batting failures cost them dearly. Pakistan, meanwhile, sealed their berth in the title clash where they will meet arch-rivals India — the first time the two giants square off in an Asia Cup final.
Key performers:
- Pakistan: Shaheen Afridi 3/17, Haris Rauf 3/33, Mohammad Nawaz 25 (13), Mohammad Haris 31 (23)
- Bangladesh: Shamim Hossain 30 (25), Taskin Ahmed 3/28, Rishad Hossain 2/18
