Bangladesh clinch thrilling 11-run victory despite Salman Agha’s fighting century

Bangladesh held their nerve to secure a narrow 11-run win over Pakistan in the third ODI at Mirpur on Sunday, despite a brilliant century from Salman Ali Agha that nearly pulled off a dramatic chase.

Batting first, Bangladesh posted a formidable total of 290-5 in their allotted 50 overs. The innings was anchored by a superb century from Tanzid Hasan, who scored 107 off 110 balls. He was well-supported by Saif Hassan (36) and Litton Das (41), while Tawhid Hridoy provided the late flourish with an unbeaten 48.

For Pakistan, Haris Rauf was the pick of the bowlers, claiming 3-52, while Shaheen Afridi and Abrar Ahmed picked up one wicket apiece.

Pakistan’s chase began in disastrous fashion, crumbling to 17-3 within the first few overs. Openers Sahibzada Farhan and Maaz Sadaqat, along with star batter Muhammad Rizwan, all fell cheaply. Muhammad Ghazi Ghori (29) and Abdul Samad (34) attempted a recovery, but Pakistan remained on the back foot at 82-5.

The match saw a dramatic shift as Salman Ali Agha played a masterful innings of 106. Partnering with Saad Masood (38) and later Shaheen Afridi (37), Salman brought Pakistan within striking distance of the target. However, his dismissal at 261 proved to be the turning point.

Despite a late cameo from Shaheen Afridi, the tail could not bridge the gap, and Pakistan were eventually bowled out for 279 in the final over.

Taskin Ahmed was the architect of the Pakistani collapse, finishing with impressive figures of 4-49. He was expertly supported by Mustafizur Rahman (3-54) and Nahid Rana (2-62), who consistently applied pressure at crucial junctures.