Bangladesh 'A' lose to Pakistan Shaheen by 8-wkt

Bangladesh A suffered an eight-wicket defeat in the opening match of their three-game one-day series against Pakistan Shaheens at Islamabad Club ground on Monday.

The defeat for Bangladesh A follows the national team's historic 10-wicket triumph over Pakistan in Rawalpindi just a day prior.

Opting to bat first, Bangladesh A struggled, posting a total of 183 runs before being dismissed in 36 overs. Pakistan Shaheens chased down the target comfortably, reaching 184-2 in just 27.5 overs.

Pacer Abbas Afridi was the standout performer, taking 5 wickets for 38 runs. He was well-supported by Jahandad Khan and Mehran Mumtaz, each claiming two wickets.

Saif Hassan was the highest run-scorer for Bangladesh A, contributing 58 runs off 47 balls, featuring 10 boundaries and a six. He was the only top-order batsman to show resistance against Afridi's impressive spell.

No. 9 batter Rishad Hossain added some respectability to the total with a knock of 40 off 37 balls.

For Pakistan Shaheens, opener Hasibullah Khan anchored the innings with an unbeaten 73 off 81 balls. However, it was Usman Khan's explosive 87 off 60 balls, including eight fours and five sixes, that sealed the victory.

The second one-day match between the two teams is scheduled for Wednesday. The earlier two-match four-day series ended in a draw.