Pakistan Shaheens kicked off the Top End T20 Series in Darwin with a commanding 79-run victory over Bangladesh ‘A’ at TIO Stadium. Fueled by blazing half-centuries from Khawaja Mohammad Nafay, Yasir Khan, and Abdul Samad, combined with a devastating spin attack led by Faisal Akram and Saad Masood, the Shaheens showcased their depth and firepower. This thrilling encounter set the tone for an exciting tournament, highlighting Pakistan’s emerging cricket talent on the global stage.
A Blistering Batting Display Sets the Stage
Electing to bat first after winning the toss, Pakistan Shaheens posted an imposing 227 for four in their 20 overs, a total that proved insurmountable for Bangladesh ‘A’. The innings was ignited by openers Khawaja Mohammad Nafay and Yasir Khan, who forged a breathtaking 118-run partnership in just 11.1 overs. Nafay, the wicketkeeper-batsman, smashed 61 off 31 balls, including eight fours and two sixes, displaying aggressive strokeplay. Yasir Khan, named Player of the Match, complemented him with a 62 off 40 balls (7 fours, 2 sixes), anchoring the early onslaught with flair.
The momentum continued as Abdul Samad took charge in the latter stages, remaining unbeaten on 56 off just 27 balls. His knock, featuring one four and five towering sixes, was a masterclass in power-hitting. Captain Muhammad Irfan Khan chipped in with a quickfire 25 off 12 balls (1 four, 3 sixes), adding 36 runs for the fourth wicket with Samad to propel the Shaheens past the 200-mark. Mohammad Faiq’s brief but impactful 18 off 10 balls further boosted the total, ensuring a daunting target.
Bangladesh ‘A’ bowlers struggled to contain the onslaught. Hasan Mahmud and Rakibul Hasan each claimed a wicket but were expensive, conceding 34 and 43 runs respectively in their four overs. Mrittunjoy Chowdhury and Ripon Mondol went wicketless, leaking runs at over 9 and 11 per over, while Mahfuzur Rahman Rabby’s solitary wicket came at a high cost of 39 runs in three overs.
Spin Wizardry and Pace Precision Dismantle Bangladesh ‘A’
Chasing 228, Bangladesh ‘A’ started aggressively despite losing Mohammad Naim (5) in the first over to Ubaid Shah. A rapid 86-run second-wicket stand between Jishan Alam (33 off 17, 5 fours, 1 six) and Saif Hassan (57 off 32, 5 fours, 3 sixes) gave them hope, reaching 92 for one by the seventh over. However, left-arm spinner Maaz Sadaqat turned the tide in the eighth, dismissing Alam to break the partnership and shift momentum.
From there, Pakistan’s spinners took over. Faisal Akram delivered a standout performance, claiming 3 wickets for just 19 runs in his three overs, including the crucial scalps of Nurul Hasan (22) and Rakibul Hasan (1). Saad Masood matched him with 3 for 30, removing Mahfuzur Rahman Rabby (3), Hasan Mahmud (2), and Ripon Mondol (0) to wrap up the innings. Fast bowler Mohammad Wasim Jnr supported with 2 for 24, dismissing Saif Hassan and Mahidul Islam Ankon (6), as Bangladesh ‘A’ crumbled to 148 all out in 16.5 overs.
The Shaheens’ bowling attack was relentless, with Akram and Masood’s spin exploiting the middle order’s vulnerabilities, while Wasim’s pace added pressure. Maaz Sadaqat’s solitary wicket and economical 4-0-25-1 spell underscored Pakistan’s balanced attack, ensuring Bangladesh ‘A’ never recovered from the early blow.
Key Performers: Yasir Khan, Faisal Akram, and Abdul Samad Shine
Yasir Khan’s all-round contribution earned him the Player of the Match award. His 62-run knock laid the foundation, while his two catches in the field, including Alam’s dismissal, were pivotal. Faisal Akram’s 3 for 19 showcased his potential as a future star, dismantling Bangladesh’s middle order with precision. Abdul Samad’s unbeaten 56, laced with power-hitting, ensured the Shaheens set a target that was always out of reach.
Match Context and What’s Next for Pakistan Shaheens
This dominant win in the Top End T20 Series opener, played at Darwin’s TIO Stadium on August 14, 2025, signals Pakistan Shaheens’ intent in the tournament, which features a mix of international ‘A’ teams and Australian domestic sides. The victory highlighted their batting depth and bowling versatility, setting a high bar for competitors.
The Shaheens now face the Perth Scorchers Academy on Saturday, August 16, at the same venue, with the first ball at 4:00 PM local time. With momentum on their side, they’ll aim to continue their winning streak, leveraging their explosive batting and potent spin attack. Upcoming fixtures include matches against Melbourne Renegades Academy (August 18) and Chicago Kingsmen (August 19), offering further opportunities to showcase their talent.
Why This Win Matters for Pakistan Cricket
The Top End T20 Series serves as a crucial platform for Pakistan’s emerging players to gain international exposure. Performances like those of Nafay, Khan, Samad, and Akram highlight the depth in Pakistan’s talent pool, offering selectors a glimpse of potential stars for the senior team. The Shaheens’ ability to dominate both with bat and ball against a competitive Bangladesh ‘A’ side underscores their readiness for higher challenges.
For fans, this victory is a reminder of Pakistan’s flair for T20 cricket—aggressive batting paired with crafty spin bowling. As the tournament progresses, the Shaheens are poised to make a strong case for regional supremacy in this exciting format.
A Statement of Intent from Pakistan Shaheens
Pakistan Shaheens’ 79-run thrashing of Bangladesh ‘A’ was a masterclass in T20 cricket, blending explosive batting with disciplined bowling. With half-centuries from Nafay, Khan, and Samad, and a spin onslaught led by Akram and Masood, the Shaheens sent a clear message in Darwin. As they gear up for their next challenge against the Scorchers, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if this young side can maintain their dominance in the Top End T20 Series.
