DUBAI: Bangladesh won the toss and opted to field first against Pakistan on Thursday at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
With both sides having suffered defeats against India but secured wins over Sri Lanka, this clash will determine who earns the right to challenge India in Sunday’s final.
Bangladesh skipper Jaker Ali announced three changes to his team at the toss, expressing optimism about his side’s chances. “We’re aiming for the final a win today is all that matters,” he stated confidently.
Pakistan, on the other hand, are sticking with a settled lineup. Captain Salman Agha confirmed that no changes had been made, showing trust in his current squad.
The T20 rivalry has been largely one-sided over the years, with Pakistan winning 20 of the 25 matches played between the two nations. Bangladesh have managed just five victories, making today’s match another chance to shift the narrative.
Pakistan:
Salman Agha (captain), Abrar Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Hasan Nawaz, Hussain Talat, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Haris (wk), Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Wasim, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Salman Mirza, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Sufiyan Muqeem.
Bangladesh:
Litton Das (captain/wk), Tanzid Hasan, Parvez Hossain Emon, Saif Hassan, Towhid Hridoy, Jaker Ali, Shamim Hossain, Nurul Hasan, Mahedi Hasan, Rishad Hossain, Nasum Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Tanzim Hasan, Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful Islam, Mohammad Saifuddin.
As the stage is set under the lights in Dubai, the cricketing world awaits the outcome of this crucial encounter. The winner books a ticket to the grand finale a shot at Asia Cup glory against India.
