Home advantage has been central to Bangladesh’s preparations, with captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz emphasizing the importance of securing direct qualification for next year’s ICC ODI World Cup. Rather than relying on the usual slow, turning tracks at Mirpur, the hosts prepared a sporting wicket that favors fast bowlers — a bold move against a Pakistan side known for its quality pace attack.
The gamble paid off in the first ODI on Wednesday, as Bangladesh cruised to an eight-wicket victory, with Nahid Rana starring with a fiery seven-over spell that yielded five wickets and decisively turned the game. Pakistan, featuring four debutant batters, struggled to handle Rana’s pace, especially on a Mirpur track that offered bounce and movement.
Earlier, Bangladesh’s opening bowlers Taskin Ahmed and Mustafizur Rahman had failed to take early wickets, with Mustafizur lacking zip with the new ball. For the second ODI, the team management may consider introducing left-arm pacer Shoriful Islam in place of leg-spinner Rishad Hossain, though it remains to be seen if the winning combination will be altered.
Bangladesh’s batters were barely tested in the first ODI after Pakistan were bowled out for 114, their lowest-ever score against Bangladesh. Tanzid Hasan Tamim led the way with a quick 67 off 42 balls, taking advantage of a Pakistan attack that looked toothless, despite being led by Shaheen Shah Afridi. The performance has also opened the door for Haris Rauf to feature in the XI for today’s match.
Playing on a sporting pitch, where pacers are rewarded and batters can play freely, suits Bangladesh perfectly, especially since most upcoming home ODIs will be at Mirpur. However, if Pakistan adapts better this time and delivers with both bat and ball, Bangladesh’s pace-centric strategy will face a stern test.
