Salman Agha’s ton goes in vain as Taskin Ahmed powers Bangladesh to 11-run series win over Pakistan

Dhaka – Bangladesh seized the three-match ODI series 2-1 with a pulsating 11-run victory over Pakistan in the decisive third contest at Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium on Sunday, overcoming a brilliant counter-attacking century from Salman Agha that had threatened to steal the game.

Electing to bat first, the hosts constructed a commanding 290 for five. Opener Tanzid Hasan Tamim produced an innings of elegance and authority to reach three figures, anchoring the effort. Litton Das provided dependable support with 41, while Towhid Hridoy’s enterprising 48 ensured the middle overs yielded steady progress. A late burst carried Bangladesh to what proved a testing target.

Pakistan’s reply began with promise, yet the pressure told at critical junctures. Salman Agha waged a lone war, striking a scintillating hundred that kept the required rate within sight. Saad Masood’s 38 and a rapid 37 from Shaheen Afridi lent further hope, but the Tigers struck when it mattered most.

Taskin Ahmed was the destroyer-in-chief, ripping through the top and lower order to finish with four wickets. Mustafizur Rahman complemented him expertly, claiming three scalps as Pakistan were bowled out for 279 with two deliveries unused.

The win, sealed amid rising tension, handed Bangladesh bragging rights after the sides had traded one-sided results earlier in the set. Skipper Mehidy Hasan Miraz admitted the final over jitters—“Everyone feels that pressure,” he said—but praised the composure of his batsmen and the discipline of his bowlers in closing out a memorable triumph.

Bangladesh, 290/5, beat Pakistan, 279, by 11 runs to clinch the series and inject fresh momentum into their home summer.