Saif Hassan shines in Bangladesh’s ODI against Pakistan

By Vikram Nair / 16.03.2026

How it unfolded

On a notable day at the Shere Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka, Bangladesh faced Pakistan in the series-deciding third ODI. Bangladesh was sent to bat first, setting the stage for an exciting contest. The team aimed to secure a series victory, and the opening partnership was critical in establishing a solid foundation.

As the match commenced, Tanzid Hasan and Saif Hassan took to the crease, both eager to make an impact. Their efforts quickly bore fruit, as they formed a formidable opening partnership. Together, they shared a remarkable 105-run stand, showcasing their ability to build momentum early in the innings.

Tanzid Hasan, in particular, was in exceptional form, scoring his maiden ODI century with an impressive 107 runs off 107 balls. His innings was marked by aggressive batting, including 7 sixes and 6 fours, which significantly contributed to the team’s total. This performance was not only a personal milestone for Tanzid but also a vital contribution to Bangladesh’s innings.

Saif Hassan, while not as explosive as his partner, played a supportive role, contributing 36 runs off 55 balls. His ability to anchor the innings allowed Tanzid to play more freely, and together they set a strong platform for the middle order. Saif’s measured approach complemented Tanzid’s aggressive style, demonstrating the importance of teamwork in cricket.

Bangladesh ended their innings with a commendable total of 290 runs for 5 wickets, largely thanks to the efforts of the opening pair. This score provided the team with a competitive edge as they looked to defend their total against a strong Pakistani side. The innings was anchored by Tanzid’s performance, which was crucial after being asked to bat first.

This match marked a significant moment for Tanzid Hasan, who achieved his sixth 50-plus score in ODIs and made his debut earlier in 2023. His journey in international cricket is just beginning, and this century will undoubtedly boost his confidence moving forward.

As the match progresses, the focus shifts to the bowlers and how they will respond to the challenge posed by Pakistan. The current state of the game sees Bangladesh in a strong position, but the outcome remains uncertain as the teams head into the second half of the match.

The sequence of events in this match is crucial for both players and teams involved. For Saif Hassan, contributing to a successful opening partnership not only enhances his reputation but also solidifies his place in the team. For Bangladesh, the performance sets a positive tone for their future matches, particularly in high-stakes situations like this series decider.