"Consistency was Key" – Mehidy Hasan Miraz Praises Pace Attack After Clinching Series Victory Against Pakistan

Bangladesh captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz said sticking with the same pace attack throughout the ODI series against Pakistan national cricket team proved decisive after the hosts secured a 2-1 victory in the third ODI against Pakistan.

Bangladesh fielded an unchanged XI in all three matches, relying on the fast-bowling trio of Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman and Nahid Rana. The decision stood out given Bangladesh’s frequent rotation of bowlers in recent years, but the trio delivered consistent performances across the series.

"We went into the match with our best bowling options," Mehidy said after the victory. "Mustafiz, Taskin and Rana have been bowling really well. Taskin gave us turning points in the match with his wickets. 

Otherwise we would have lost the match. We had planned to give players full opportunities, as we believe it gives us more chance to win matches."

Pace trio lead Bangladesh bowling effort

The three fast bowlers accounted for 19 wickets in the series at an average of 21.84. Rana set the tone in the opening match with a five-wicket haul, while Taskin produced the standout performance in the decider.

Taskin struck early blows in the final match, removing Sahibzada Farhan and Mohammad Rizwan to leave Pakistan struggling at 17 for 3. He later dismissed Faheem Ashraf and eventually claimed the key wicket of Salman Agha with a slower delivery.

Mehidy highlighted Taskin’s experience and composure under pressure. "Taskin is among our most experienced cricketers. He is a really hard-working cricketer who uses his experience," he said. "Taskin knows what to bowl in each situation. He knows how to motivate himself."

Focus on World Cup qualification

Bangladesh also underlined the importance of ODI ranking points as they look ahead to qualification for the 2027 tournament. Mehidy said maintaining consistency in team selection was part of that approach.

"We have to keep our ranking points in mind [to qualify for the ODI World Cup next year]. It is most important for us in the coming days. It will help us in automatic qualification for the World Cup in 2027. We are focused on winning matches and winning series."

Rana, who returned to the ODI side during the series, was later named Player of the Series along with Tanzid Hasan after his impact with the ball.