The Pakistan vs Bangladesh T20I series has been revised to three matches, all to be held at Gaddafi Stadium, from May 28 to June 1, 2025, starting each day at 8:00 PM. This decision, made in consultation with the BCB, reflects concerns over security and logistics. New talent will be tested as senior players are omitted from Pakistan’s squad.
The Pakistan vs Bangladesh T20I series has undergone significant changes, with the total number of matches being reduced. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially confirmed the new schedule for the upcoming tour, where the series will now consist of three matches instead of five. All matches will be held at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.
The series is set to take place from May 28 to June 1, with each match commencing at 8:00 PM local time. Bangladesh’s team is expected to arrive in Lahore on May 25, with training sessions slated for the next two days.
According to the PCB, this adjustment was made after discussions with the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), which took place in Dubai among PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, BCB Chairman Nazmul Abedin, and BCB President Faruque Ahmed. Security concerns and logistical difficulties, exacerbated by rising regional tensions and the postponement of the Pakistan Super League, were key factors that led to this altered schedule.
Originally, the series was supposed to feature five matches at various venues, including Faisalabad. However, it has been consolidated solely in Lahore. In expressing appreciation towards the BCB, Naqvi noted the cricket board’s commitment to Pakistan’s cricketing calendar amid these disruptions.
“We appreciate the understanding and cooperation of the BCB during this process,” Naqvi stated. “The revised schedule ensures that fans in Pakistan will still witness top-quality international cricket under lights at Gaddafi Stadium.”
The updated match schedule now stands as follows: The first T20I is on May 28 at 8:00 PM, the second match follows on May 30 at the same time, and the final T20I takes place on June 1, again at 8:00 PM, all at Gaddafi Stadium.
From a team perspective, this series marks the debut of Pakistan’s new head coach Mike Hesson. The squad showcases a notable shift in strategy as key players like Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Afridi have been omitted. Instead, selectors are focusing on exploring the depth of their talent pool in light of an upcoming busy international schedule.
Returning to the squad is Saim Ayub, who had been sidelined after sustaining an ankle injury during the latter part of the South Africa tour. Additionally, Sahibzada Farhan is back and has made a mark as the top run-scorer in the PSL, boasting an impressive 394 runs at a strike rate of 154.50. His past involvement in T20Is dates back to 2018, making this recall noteworthy.
On the Bangladesh side, the leadership is under the new captain Litton Das, who has officially taken over T20I captaincy from Najmul Hossain Shanto. Mahedi Hasan has been appointed vice-captain for both this tour and the preceding one conducted in the UAE.
While the series being shortened is a logistical compromise, it also provides a vital opportunity for both teams to assess new talent. For Pakistan, the absence of senior players will highlight emerging talent, while Bangladesh is looking to gain momentum under their new leadership. Overall, this three-match contest is expected to deliver competitive cricket despite its condensed nature, as both nations aim to seize the moment.
In summary, the Pakistan vs Bangladesh T20I series will now consist of three matches at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, taking place from May 28 to June 1, 2025. The PCB made this decision after consulting with the BCB, driven by security concerns and logistical challenges. With fresh faces in both squads, the series is set to provide an exciting opportunity for emerging talent, showcasing a blend of strategic shifts and competitive cricket.
Original Source: www.wisden.com
