Hesson praises Pakistan's T20 series win over Bangladesh

Head coach Mike Hesson expressed immense pride in the Pakistan cricket team after their T20 series victory against Bangladesh, highlighting a successful first experience with the squad's young, emerging players.

Taking to X, Hesson shared his satisfaction, stating, "My first series with the Pakistan team couldn't have gone any better! We set out to challenge ourselves, testing different combinations, staying flexible with the batting, and pushing our limits with the ball." 

He added, "Really proud of how this young group responded."

Pakistan clinched the series by defeating Bangladesh by seven wickets in the third and final T20 International on Sunday.

 The decisive match, played at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, saw Bangladesh bat first and post 196 runs for six wickets in their allotted 20 overs.

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 Pakistan successfully chased the target of 197 runs in just 17.2 overs, losing only three wickets, thanks to a brilliant century from Mohammad Haris.

Chasing a challenging target, Pakistan lost opener Sahibzada Farhan for just one run in the first over. However, Saim Ayub and Mohammad Haris quickly stabilised the innings, building a crucial 100-run partnership by the 9.3 over mark.

Ayub contributed a swift 45 runs from 29 balls, including two fours and four sixes. Haris, however, remained resolute, guiding Pakistan to victory.

Contributions also came from Hassan Nawaz (26 runs) and captain Salman Ali Agha (15 runs). Pakistan reached the target of 197 in just 17.2 overs, losing three wickets.

Earlier, Bangladesh, batting first, posted a strong total of 196 for six in their 20 overs, largely due to an aggressive half-century from Pervez Hussain. He blazed 66 runs off just 34 balls, featuring four sixes and seven fours. Pervez also forged a significant 110-run partnership with Tanzeed Hasan, who scored 42 off 32 balls, including three sixes and three fours.

In a tactical move for the final match, Pakistan brought in fast bowler Abbas Afridi, replacing Haris Rauf. This victory marks Pakistan's third consecutive win in the series, following earlier triumphs by 37 and 57 runs.