Pakistan began the three-match ODI series against Bangladesh in disappointing fashion as the side crumbled for just 114 runs in the first ODI in Dhaka, registering their lowest-ever ODI total against Bangladesh. The hosts then chased down the target in just 15.1 overs to record a dominating 8-wicket victory.

After being invited to bat first, Pakistan started positively with openers Sahibzada Farhan and Maaz Sadaqat putting up a 41-run partnership.

However, what followed was nothing less than a nightmare for the visitors as wickets kept falling at regular intervals and none of the Pakistan batters were able to put up much resistance.

At one stage, it even looked like Pakistan might struggle to cross the 100-run mark.

Faheem Ashraf put up a fight for Pakistan

With the innings in deep trouble, all-rounder Faheem Ashraf came to Pakistan’s rescue.

Ashraf played a fighting knock of 37 runs from 47 deliveries, helping Pakistan reach the three-digit mark. Despite his effort, Pakistan were eventually bowled out for 114 in 30.4 overs, marking a disappointing start to the series. Pakistan's previous lowest ODI total against Bangladesh came in the 1999 World Cup, when they stumbled to 161 in Northampton.

Pakistan had earlier decided to give opportunities to several young players in the ODI squad. However, the move did not seem to have worked in their favour, at least in the opening match of the series. The relatively inexperienced batting lineup struggled to handle Bangladesh’s disciplined bowling attack.

Another major talking point surrounding the team selection has been the omission of former captain Babar Azam. His absence has now sparked discussions about Pakistan’s approach as the side begins fresh preparations for the ICC ODI World Cup 2027.

Nahid Rana leads Bangladesh’s sensational bowling effort

For Bangladesh, it was a sensational bowling performance led by young pacer Nahid Rana. The right-arm fast bowler dismantled Pakistan’s batting lineup with a brilliant five-wicket haul, finishing with figures of 5 for 24 in seven overs.

Rana removed several key batters from Pakistan’s top order and never allowed them to settle at the crease. His bowling was marked by excellent pace, consistent line and length, and brilliant execution of plans, which kept Pakistan under pressure throughout the innings.

Apart from Rana, Bangladesh captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz also played a key role with the ball, picking up three wickets to further dismantle Pakistan’s batting lineup.

Chasing the total, opener Tanzid Hasan smashed 67* off 42 balls after Pakistan captain Shaheen Afridi removed Saif Hassan in the fifth over.

The combination of pace and spin from Bangladesh, followed by aggressive batting, worked perfectly as they bundled Pakistan out for a modest total and took early control in the three-match home series.