Pakistanis lose to BCB XI

Bangladesh Cricket Board XI beat Pakistanis by one wicket at Khan Shaheb Osman Ali Stadium in Fatullah in the lone practice match before the two national sides begin their series.

The first match of the two Asian cricketing nations, a one-day international, will be held at Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium on Friday.

After winning the toss, the visitors scored 268 runs losing nine wickets.

In reply, BCB XI lost the momentum losing three consecutive wickets after Shabbir Rahman-Imrul Kayes pair contributed 124 runs to keep the side in the match.

Imrul and Shabbir then left in quick succession, followed by Shuvagata Hom.

Shabbir scored 123 runs off 99 balls and was gradually bringing the chase under control in partnership with Imrul. But then the middle order suddenly collapsed with Kayes, Shabbir and Hom departing in two consecutive overs – 37th and 38th.

Shohag Gazi then scored a fluent 36 off 28 deliveries to keep the side on the chase. When he departed, BCB XI needed 10 runs from 18 balls. Taijul and Shahid stayed on the crease and brought the side home.

Earlier, Pakistan elected to bat first winning the toss, and posted a challenging total of 268 runs for nine wickets in the stipulated 50 overs.

Mohammad Hafeez was the top-scorer for his side with a brisk innings of 85 runs from 79 balls (nine 4s, four 6s). He opened the innings with captain Azhar Ali and looked in good touch.

Pakistan lost wickets in regular intervals after a 66-run opening stand. Fawad Alam stopped the rot with sensible batting and remained unbeaten on 67 runs from 58 balls.

Shuvagata Hom was the most successful bowler for Bangladesh Cricket Board XI and picked up three wickets for 39 runs in seven overs.

This 15 a-side tour match is Pakistan's only chance to acclimatise with conditions before they take on Bangladesh on April 17 in the first match of the Dan Cake ODI Cricket Series between the two countries.