Haris powers Pakistan to series whitewash with maiden T20I century

Mohammad Haris illuminated the Gaddafi Stadium with a spectacular unbeaten century as Pakistan completed a resounding 3-0 T20I series whitewash against Bangladesh on Sunday.

Pakistan clinched the final encounter by seven wickets, chasing down the target of 197 with calculated dominance in the 18th over. A raucous Lahore crowd witnessed the Green Shirts' first T20I series clean sweep against any side since 2021.

After electing to field first upon winning the toss, Pakistan restricted Bangladesh to 196 for six from the allotted 20 overs. The visitors' innings was spearheaded by Parvez Hossain Emon, who scored a fluent 66. Tanzid Hasan added 42, while Towhid Hridoy and captain Litton Das contributed 25 and 22 runs respectively.

Among Pakistan's bowling attack, fast bowlers Hasan Ali and Abbas Afridi each took two wickets. Spin-bowling all-rounders Shadab Khan and Faheem Ashraf secured one scalp apiece, applying pressure through the middle overs.

In reply, Pakistan’s batting line-up displayed composure and flair. Wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Haris, representing Pakistan, delivered a career-defining performance with an unbeaten 107 – his first T20I century. His innings proved pivotal in anchoring the chase.

“I always believed in my ability to perform under pressure. Today, I wanted to finish the game for my team,” said Haris, who played with authority throughout the innings.

Opening batter Saim Ayub supported Haris with a confident 45, while Hasan Nawaz contributed 26 to bolster the successful run-chase.

Pakistan’s playing XI included: Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Mohammad Haris (wk), Salman Agha (c), Hasan Nawaz, Shadab Khan, Khushdil Shah, Faheem Ashraf, Abbas Afridi, Hasan Ali, and Abrar Ahmed.

Bangladesh fielded: Tanzid Hasan, Parvez Hossain Emon, Litton Das (c), Towhid Hridoy, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Jaker Ali, Shamim Hossain, Rishad Hossain, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Hasan Mahmud, and Khaled Ahmed.