Table Of Contents
he cricketing world witnessed a significant moment on Thursday, March 12, 2026, as Bangladesh secured a momentous and convincing victory over Pakistan in the first One Day International (ODI) of the three-match series. Playing at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur, Dhaka, the home team delivered a complete all-around performance to defeat Pakistan by 79 runs, taking a 1-0 lead in the series. This win marks a major statement for Bangladesh cricket, reinforcing their growing prowess in the white-ball format.
Bangladesh, after winning the toss and electing to bat first, posted a competitive total of 309/6 in their 50 overs, driven by exceptional centuries from their experienced middle-order duo, Mushfiqur Rahim and Tamim Iqbal. In response, Pakistan’s chase never gained the necessary momentum. Despite a fighting half-century from their captain, Babar Azam, and contributions from the lower order, the Pakistani batting unit crumbled under the pressure of disciplined Bangladeshi bowling. They were eventually bowled out for 230 in 43.4 overs.
Bangladesh’s decision to bat first paid off, despite a precarious start where they lost early wickets. The experience of the middle order proved to be the turning point.
The Stumble (0–50): Pakistan’s new-ball attack, led by the fiery Shaheen Afridi, struck early. The aggressive Litton Das (12) fell in the third over, attempting a bold drive against Afridi. Shakib Al Hasan (24) followed soon after, falling to an exceptional caught-and-bowled by young Naseem Shah.
The Recovery (50–200): This collapse brought together the two veterans, Tamim Iqbal and Mushfiqur Rahim, who stabilized the innings with an impressive exhibit of patient batting and aggressive shot selection. They targeted the Pakistani spinners, Mehedi Hasan and Mohammad Nawaz, ensuring the run rate hovered above 5.5.
The Onslaught (200–309): Tamim Iqbal (112 off 120 balls, 11x4) registered his 15th ODI century, while Mushfiqur Rahim (106* off 95 balls, 12x4, 3x6) played a classic anchor-turned-aggressor innings. Their 178-run partnership for the third wicket laid the foundation for the massive total. A late cameo from Mahmudullah (35 off 21) pushed the score past 300, giving Bangladesh significant momentum.
Pakistan’s Bowling: Pakistan’s spinners struggled with control, leaking runs in the middle overs. Shaheen Afridi was the most effective bowler, finishing with figures of 3/58.
Chasing 310, Pakistan started aggressively but faced immediate trouble when explosive opener Imam-ul-Haq (8) mistimed a pull shot off Mustafizur Rahman in the fourth over.
Babar's Struggle: The crucial wicket was that of Pakistan’s linchpin, Babar Azam (65 off 78 balls). He played with caution, rebuilding the innings alongside Abdullah Shafique (38). However, just as he was beginning to accelerate, he played a false shot against the relentless spin of Shakib Al Hasan, offering a simple catch to short cover.
Spin Stranglehold: The middle overs were dominated by Bangladesh’s disciplined spin trio Shakib Al Hasan, Mehedi Hasan Miraz, and Mahmudullah who dried up the runs and forced mistakes. The loss of Babar and Rizwan (22) in quick succession effectively ended Pakistan’s realistic hopes of a successful chase.
The Final Collapse: Despite some resistance from Shadab Khan (21) and Iftikhar Ahmed (19), the tail was quickly wrapped up by Mustafizur Rahman and Taskin Ahmed. Mustafizur’s economical spell of 4/43 was pivotal in restricting Pakistan.
Player of the Match: Mushfiqur Rahim (Bangladesh)
Bangladesh now holds a 1-0 lead in the three-match ODI series. This win not only provides them with immediate advantage but significantly boosts their confidence, having defeated the highly ranked Pakistani team.
Pakistan, on the other hand, must rethink their tactical approach, particularly in the middle overs, as both their batting discipline and spin bowling require attention before the second fixture.
Remaining ODI Schedule:
2nd ODI: Sunday, March 15, 2026 – Mirpur, Dhaka
3rd ODI: Wednesday, March 18, 2026 – Chattogram
CURRENT SERIESMore Links
MATCH PREDICTION
