Mohammad Haris blasted a stunning century to help Pakistan chase down a steep target of 197 runs and complete a 3-0 T20I series sweep over Bangladesh at the Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, on Sunday.
The wicketkeeper-batter hammered an unbeaten 107 off just 46 balls, his maiden T20 international century, as Pakistan overhauled Bangladesh’s 196-run target in just 17.2 overs, cruising to a seven-wicket victory.
Haris, who opened the innings, struck eight fours and seven sixes in a brutal display of power-hitting. He dominated a 92-run stand with Saim Ayub, who chipped in with a quickfire 45 off 29 balls.
Earlier, Bangladesh posted a competitive 196 for 6 after electing to bat first. Parvez Hossain Emon led the charge with a blazing 66 off 34 deliveries, supported by Tanzid Hasan’s 42 and late cameos from Towhid Hridoy and Jaker Ali.
Pakistan’s bowling effort was a mixed bag, with Abbas Afridi (2-26) and Hasan Ali (2-38) providing key breakthroughs amid some expensive spells. Despite the visitors’ strong total, their bowlers struggled to contain Haris and company.
Mehidy Hasan Miraz picked up two wickets for Bangladesh, including that of power-hitter Hasan Nawaz, but the Pakistani batters maintained a relentless scoring rate throughout the chase.
Pakistan had earlier won the first two matches of the series by 37 and 57 runs, respectively, making this a comprehensive clean sweep over the visiting side.
The dominant performance adds further confidence to Pakistan’s preparations ahead of the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup, with Haris’ form emerging as a major positive for the side.