Predicting BAN’s Playing XI for the 1st T20I Match against PAK

After a comprehensive 8-wicket victory over Sri Lanka, Bangladesh confidently heads into the first home T20I against Pakistan in 2025. Bangladesh may face a stiff challenge from Pakistan’s disciplined bowling attack, but the Tigers have three major things going in their favour: momentum, home advantage, and players in form. As the action heads to Mirpur, here is a look at the likely XI for Bangladesh, based on recent form.

Openers – Who Can Set the Stadium on Fire?

Tanzid Hasan has cemented his position as Bangladesh’s most explosive opening option after scoring an inconceivable 73 off 47 balls against Sri Lanka. Tanzid played with six enormous sixes and one four, combining aggression and maturity to pace the chase well, showing he can be much more than a slogger and opening batter under pressure. He demonstrated the ability to take on the new ball and attack spinners, which makes him a dangerous player at the top.

The ideal partner for him with the bat will be Litton Das, who contributed as an important partner with a fluent 32 runs from 26 balls. In his dual role as captain and wicketkeeper, Litton is expected to provide both steady leadership and composure. He has not been in the most dominant batting form in recent months, but his experience at the top will create the kind of balance needed to complement Tanzid’s aggressive batting style. Moreover, their combination as a left-right combination will unsettle Pakistan’s bowlers early.

Middle Order – The Stabilizers

Towhid Hridoy’s reliability in stressful situations is impressive. The unbeaten 27 off 25 in Colombo may not excite anyone, but it was a classic example of middle-order calmness. His understanding of the game, his ability to rotate the strike, and his comfort against spin and pace mean he’s a valuable No. 4 batter. Given that Bangladesh usually collapses in the middle of their innings, Hridoy plugs that hole nicely.

While Jaker Ali was not used in the chase against Sri Lanka, he has been quietly putting his hat in the ring through some strong domestic and franchise T20 forms. Jaker is quick through the hands and, when it comes down to it, he can be a clutch finisher. Jaker fits best somewhere between No. 5 and 6, depending on the match scenario. Jaker’s calmness and finishing skills could be priceless in the backend against a quality Pakistan attack.

All-Rounders – The Game Changers

In the last T20I against Sri Lanka, Mahedi Hasan impressed with a remarkable 4-for-11 bowling spell across four overs. His sharp off-spin makes him a key wicket-taker and run-controller, while his powerful lower-order hitting adds valuable depth to Bangladesh’s lineup.

Shamim Hossain, who served a role as the 6th bowler and took a wicket through his part-time spin, has potential with the bat. Shamim is a left-handed batsman who can hit some balls for boundaries, particularly with some leg spin, making him the ideal slugger at No. 6 or 7. The other side of it is that he can do both, which makes him flexible with the team structure, particularly on home tracks that spin.

Bowlers – The Wicket Takers to Watch

Mustafizur Rahman was back to his economical self in Colombo, only giving away 17 runs in 4 overs and picking up a wicket. His off-cutters and slower balls are perfectly suited for the slow surfaces at Mirpur. Against Pakistan’s aggressive middle order, Mustafizur’s experience and control in the death overs will be very important.

While Mahedi deserves praise, Rishad Hossain also deserves credit. Though wicketless in the last match, he bowled four tight overs at an economy of 5.00. As a leg-spinner with flight and variety, he brings a much-needed X-factor to Bangladesh’s attack. His role in the middle overs will be crucial for breaking partnerships and keeping the run rate in check.

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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