Bangladesh edged Pakistan by 11 runs in a gripping third ODI in Mirpur, with Tanzid Hasan’s maiden century and Taskin Ahmed’s four-wicket haul helping the hosts seal the series in dramatic fashion.
Batting first, Bangladesh posted 290 for 5 on a challenging surface that offered both turn and variable bounce. The foundation of the innings was laid by opener Tanzid Hasan, who produced a composed and mature knock of 107. It was his first ODI hundred, built with patience and controlled aggression as he struck six fours and seven sixes.
Tanzid shared a 105-run opening stand with Saif Hassan, who contributed 36 off 55 balls. After the partnership was broken, Litton Das added 41 while Towhid Hridoy played a valuable late cameo of 48 not out off 44 balls to push Bangladesh close to the 300 mark. Haris Rauf was Pakistan’s best bowler with figures of 3 for 52.
Pakistan’s chase of 291 started poorly as Taskin Ahmed struck early, removing Sahibzada Farhan and Mohammad Rizwan in the opening overs. Reduced to 67 for 4, Pakistan were struggling before Salman Ali Agha staged a remarkable rescue act.
Agha produced a superb counterattacking innings, scoring 106 off 98 balls with nine fours and four sixes. Along with Saad Masood, he rebuilt the innings and kept Pakistan in contention. Later, Shaheen Shah Afridi added a fighting 37, and Pakistan entered the final over still with a slim chance.
Needing 14 from the last over, the match swung dramatically with a dropped catch, a reversed wide decision, and frantic running between the wickets. However, Bangladesh held their nerve. Afridi was dismissed on the final ball as Pakistan were bowled out for 279.
Taskin Ahmed finished with 4 for 49 to lead Bangladesh’s bowling effort, ensuring the hosts clinched a memorable series victory.