The recent clash between Pakistan A and Bangladesh A in Islamabad saw Mahmudul Hasan Joy as the lone warrior for the Bangladeshi team, displaying resilience while the rest of the batting unit crumbled under pressure.
Pakistan A, after a solid display in the field, ended the day at 2 for 0, trailing behind Bangladesh A who were dismissed for a meager 122 runs. Fast bowlers Naseem Shah and Mir Hamza were the architects of Pakistan A’s dominant performance, picking up three wickets each to dismantle the Bangladeshi batting lineup.
The day’s play was delayed due to a wet outfield, but Bangladesh A won the toss and opted to bat first. However, Naseem and Hamza had other plans as they wreaked havoc on the Bangladeshi top order. Mahmudul Hasan Joy stood tall amidst the chaos, scoring 65 runs to provide some resistance against the formidable Pakistan A attack.
Naseem, making his return to red-ball Cricket after recovering from an injury, impressed with figures of 3 for 24 in 8.3 overs, while Hamza also contributed with 3 for 33 in 11 overs. Captain Anamul Haque, Mominul Haque, and Rejaur Rahman Raja fell victim to Naseem’s fiery spell, while Hamza dismissed Zakir Hasan, Shahadat Hossain, and Nayeem Hasan.
Despite a brief partnership, Bangladesh A succumbed to pressure, losing wickets consistently before being bundled out for 122. Mohammad Rameez and Umar Amin also made valuable contributions with the ball, restricting the Bangladeshi batsmen.
Pakistan A’s batting innings was cut short by bad light, with Saim Ayub and Muhammad Huraira unbeaten at the crease after facing just two overs. The teams are scheduled to play two four-day games and three one-day matches in the upcoming month, setting the stage for an exciting series between the senior teams starting on August 21 in Rawalpindi.
