The Pakistan vs Bangladesh T20I series has been shortened from five matches to three, entirely hosted at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium from May 28 to June 1, 2025. This decision comes after consultations between the Pakistan Cricket Board and Bangladesh Cricket Board, citing security concerns. Notable adjustments include Pakistan’s new squad under head coach Mike Hesson, with several star players omitted.
The T20I series between Pakistan and Bangladesh has been trimmed down. Officially confirmed by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), the series will now consist of three matches instead of the originally planned five. All games will take place at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.
Scheduled to run from May 28 to June 1, all three matches will kick off at 8:00 PM local time. Bangladesh is expected to land in Lahore on May 25, allowing for two days of training before the series begins.
The PCB’s changes followed discussions with the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), specifically between PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi and BCB Chairman Nazmul Abedin along with BCB President Faruque Ahmed. Rising regional tensions and security issues, particularly amplified by the mid-season postponement of the Pakistan Super League, contributed to this decision to condense the series.
Originally, the matches were intended to be held at various venues, including Faisalabad, but the revised schedule centralizes everything in Lahore. Naqvi expressed gratitude towards the BCB, commending their collaboration during complex circumstances.
“We appreciate the understanding and cooperation of the BCB during this process,” said Naqvi. He emphasized that the new schedule allows fans in Pakistan to enjoy international cricket at the iconic Gaddafi Stadium.
The following is the updated schedule:
– May 28: 1st T20I, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore – 8:00 PM
– May 30: 2nd T20I, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore – 8:00 PM
– June 1: 3rd T20I, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore – 8:00 PM
On the team front, this series is particularly notable for Pakistan, as it marks the first series under new head coach Mike Hesson. The selectors have made some bold choices. Notable players like Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Afridi will not be part of the squad, as selectors have chosen to explore newer talents in anticipation of a packed international calendar.
Returning to the squad are Saim Ayub, who had been sidelined due to an ankle fracture, and Sahibzada Farhan. Farhan is making a comeback as the PSL’s leading run-scorer with 394 runs at a striking rate of 154.50, last playing in T20Is in 2018.
For Bangladesh, Litton Das is now at the helm as captain, taking over from Najmul Hossain Shanto earlier in the year. Mahedi Hasan is the vice-captain for this tour and the previous one in the UAE.
Though the series has been shortened, it provides both teams a valuable chance to assess emerging talents. For Hesson’s Pakistan, the absence of seasoned players allows for the younger contingent to step up, while Bangladesh seeks to gain momentum under its new leadership.
Competitively, the series promises exciting cricket despite the adjustments, with both teams ready to tackle the challenges this series brings, under no circumstances.
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In summary, the Pakistan vs. Bangladesh T20I series has been revised, now consisting of three matches instead of five, all to be held at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium from May 28 to June 1. Both cricket boards have collaborated closely to manage this condensed schedule due to concerns over security and logistics amidst regional tensions. The series will signify a new era for Pakistan under coach Mike Hesson, who has made notable selections excluding several senior players, while Bangladesh aims to strengthen its performance with new captain Litton Das at the forefront.
Original Source: www.wisden.com
