Pakistan won their Asia Cup match against Bangladesh in Dhaka by three wickets and with a ball to spare, thanks to a Shahid Afridi batting masterclass, which saw them reach the final alongside Sri Lanka.
Bangladesh posted a massive 326 for three, with all four of the top order recording at least a half century and Shakib-al-Hasan returning with a blistering cameo. Pakistan then replied with a ton from Ahmed Shehzad and fifties from Fawad Alam and Afridi.
Bangladesh, determined to restore pride after their loss to Afghanistan, won the toss and chose to bat, and got off to a flyer. Anamul Haque and Imrul Kayes put on 150 runs for the first wicket, with Anamul going to on to make 100 on the dot.
Kayes recorded 59, while Mushfiqur Rahim and Mominul Haque made 51 each, with the former unbeaten. Shakib returned from his three match suspension to score 44 off 16 balls, including six four and two huge sixes.
Pakistan’s chase was headed by Shehzad, whose 103 off 123 balls laid the foundation, and despite the loss of cheap wickets later on, the visitors were able to reach the target. They only needed 261 runs to ensure a place in the final, even if they lost.
Afridi’s knock, in partnership with Alam, who was run out for 74 in the final over, was the thrill of the night. He scored his 50 off 18 balls, and then added nine more before also being run out.
The final will be played on 8 March in Dhaka.
