LAHORE – Pakistan are all set to take on Bangladesh in the opening match of the three-match T20I series at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium on Wednesday (today).
The second T20I will be played on Friday, May 30, while the third and final is scheduled on June 1. The T20Is will begin at 8 pm, with the toss taking place at 7.30 pm local time.
Salman Ali Agha will lead the hosts, while Litton Das will captain the visitors. Both sides had their first training session at the Gaddafi Stadium under lights on Monday evening and the second one on the following day to get themselves ready for the series.
In a head-to-head in Pakistan, both sides have featured in four T20Is, with Bangladesh touring Pakistan for a T20I in 2020. Pakistan have won three T20Is, while one match was washed out. Overall in five bilateral series, Pakistan have edged out Bangladesh four times, with the visitors’ only win coming in 2015.
Earlier, Mike Hesson was appointed Pakistan’s white-ball coach, while Salman Ali Agha, who has so far led the team in nine T20Is, will continue to be the skipper of the side.
Salman Ali Agha: “We had a very productive practice session yesterday, and the boys are doing well as a unit. A lot of our players are coming off strong performances in the HBL PSL X, which is one of the most competitive T20 tournaments in the world. That form and momentum are something we are hoping to carry into this series.
“I would like to urge fans to turn up in big numbers and support not just us, but the spirit of the game.”
Litton Das: “We have had a good training session, and we are familiar with the conditions here. The players are looking forward to the series. Everyone is focused and understands the challenge Pakistan poses, especially in their home conditions.
“This series is a great opportunity for every player to step up. We are trying a few combinations in the build-up to the T20 World Cup next year, and this tour is a valuable part of that process.”