Bangladesh vs Pakistan 1st T20I Match Preview – July 20, 2025

Match: Bangladesh vs Pakistan
Format: T20I
Date: Sunday, July 20, 2025
Time: 13:00 GMT (5:30 PM IST)
Venue: Shere Bangla National Stadium, Dhaka
Series: Pakistan tour of Bangladesh 2025 – 1st of 3 T20Is

Match Overview

The 1st T20I of the Pakistan tour of Bangladesh 2025 kicks off a highly anticipated three-match series at the Shere Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka. This clash is not only a continuation of one of the fiercest rivalries in T20 cricket but also a crucial step for both teams as they gear up for the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.

Bangladesh, coming off a 2-1 T20I series win over Sri Lanka, will look to continue their winning momentum on home soil. Pakistan, on the other hand, arrives with a reshuffled squad, missing key stars like Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, and Mohammad Rizwan. This gives the younger and emerging talents a chance to step up and prove their worth on the big stage.

Historically, Pakistan has dominated this fixture, having won 19 of the 22 meetings. However, with a different squad and a home advantage for Bangladesh, this could be one of the most competitive encounters in recent times.

Head-to-Head Record

• Total Matches: 22
• Pakistan Wins: 19
• Bangladesh Wins: 3

Venue & Pitch Insights

• Venue: Shere Bangla National Stadium, Dhaka
• Pitch Type: Bowling-friendly, with assistance to spinners
• Historical Trends: 39 wins for the team batting first, 36 for the chasing side
• Toss Strategy: The team winning the toss is expected to choose to bat first

Weather Conditions

• Temperature: High of 33°C, Low of 27°C
• Rain Probability: 94% chance of rain – could lead to interruptions or a reduced match
• Impact: The weather could play a pivotal role in shaping the result, especially if the match is shortened.

Probable Playing XIs

Bangladesh (11)

1. Tanzid Hasan
2. Parvez Hossain Emon
3. Litton Das (c & wk)
4. Towhid Hridoy
5. Jaker Ali
6. Shakib Al Hasan (wk)
7. Rishad Hossain
8. Shoriful Islam
9. Tanzim Hasan Sakib
10. Mustafizur Rahman
11. Mahedi Hasan

Pakistan (11)

1. Saim Ayub
2. Fakhar Zaman
3. Mohammad Haris (wk)
4. Hassan Nawaz
5. Salman Ali Agha (c)
6. Khushdil Shah
7. Mohammad Nawaz
8. Hussain Talat
9. Mohammad Abbas Afridi
10. Sufiyan Muqeem
11. Abrar Ahmed

Score Prediction

• Average 1st innings score: 139
• Projected total: 160-165
• Winning total: 170+ will be a strong total, 150+ will be competitive.

Key Players to Watch

Bangladesh:

• Litton Das – The captain and key run-scorer
• Towhid Hridoy – Emerging all-rounder
• Rishad Hossain – Death-overs specialist
• Mahedi Hasan – Spin wizard
• Mustafizur Rahman – Star pacer with big-match experience

Pakistan:

• Saim Ayub – Explosive opener
• Fakhar Zaman – Reliable middle-order anchor
• Salman Ali Agha – Consistent performer
• Hussain Talat – All-rounder with match-winning potential
• Mohammad Abbas Afridi – Experienced seamer

Match Prediction

While Pakistan has the upper hand in the head-to-head record, this match could go either way. With a home crowd, favorable pitch, and a reshuffled Pakistan side, Bangladesh will be the slight favorites. However, the weather could be a game-changer, especially if the match is reduced.

Prediction:

• Bangladesh by 5–10 runs if the match is played in full
• Pakistan by 5–10 runs if rain interrupts play
• Tie or No Result is a real possibility due to weather.

How to Watch Live

Conclusion

This is set to be an exciting start to the series, with both teams eager to make a statement. The battle between spin and pace, supported by unpredictable weather, will make for an intriguing contest. Cricket fans worldwide can look forward to a high-tempo, closely-fought match that could set the tone for the rest of the series.

Stay tuned for live updates and match reports right here!
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