ICC World T20: Bangladesh Fail To Qualify For Super Eights

In a do or die match for Bangladesh, their side flattered only to deceive as Pakistan showed why they are considered one of the favourites to win the trophy this year. In a high scoring contest the Pakistanis defeated their opponents by 8 wickets to cruise into the super eights.

Electing to bat first Bangladesh started like a house on fire as Tamim Iqbal took the opening bowlers apart. Shakib Al Hasan joined him in the fun and Bangladesh reached 60 in the first six overs losing just one wicket. The dismissal of Tamim slowed down proceedings a bit, as Mushfiqur Rahim struggled to get the big hits. Shakib however kept the runs coming from his end. The former captain scored 84 runs in a mere 54 deliveries to take his side to a challenging 175. Barring Shahid Afridi none of the Pakistani bowlers could keep a lid on the scoring rate.Yasir Arafat though took three wickets.

In reply, Imran Nazir once again demonstrated the talent that he has at his disposal. Bangladesh kept trying to bounce the openers out, but kept getting smashed to all parts of the ground. With an opening partnership of 124 in 13 overs, the result was a foregone conclusion. Nazir scored a whirlwind 72 off just 36 deliveries while his captain gave him support with an innings of 45. Nasir Jamshed and Kamran Akmal were not going to let any late twists in the tale occur, as they both scored quicks 20s to take the side to an easy win. With figures of none for 23 in his four overs only Shakib Al Hasan was reserved some respect by the batsmen.