Bangladesh A made a flying start in the final of the Asia Cup Rising Stars as they picked up three crucial wickets in the powerplay against Pakistan Shaheens at West End Park International Cricket Stadium on Sunday.
The drama began with a sensational first-ball run-out of Yasir Khan by Abdul Gaffar Saqlain. A gently short-of-length delivery saw Yasir push towards mid-on and attempt a quick single, but Saqlain was lightning fast, bending down and under-arming a direct hit at the non-striker’s end to send Yasir back without scoring. Pakistan were reeling at 0-1 after the first ball.
The carnage continued as Meherob dismissed Mohammad Faiq in the second over. Faiq, attempting an aggressive shot off a quicker delivery, missed completely, and his stumps were rattled. Pakistan were 2 for 2 within just seven balls.
Ghazi Ghori could not survive either, falling to Rakibul Hasan for 9, leaving Pakistan Shaheens in deep trouble at 3 for 25 after just 4.1 overs.
Despite the early collapse, Maaz Sadaqat (16*) and Arafat Minhas (13*) steadied the innings, but the Pakistan side struggled to recover from the early onslaught.
Bangladesh A, with disciplined bowling and sharp fielding, dominated the opening six overs, restricting Pakistan to 40/3.
The skipper Akbar Ali and his team will look to maintain the pressure as they aim to clinch the Asia Cup Rising Stars title in a commanding performance.
NSA
