It is not often that Pakistan enters a match against Bangladesh tagged as the underdogs and with their confidence at its lowest.

Ahead of the only T20 between the two sides today, the 'favourites' tag is well deserved by Bangladesh after their 3-0 rout of Pakistan in the ODI series and if its anything is anything to go by, Mashrafe Mortaza's batting line-up appears settled and in terrific form. Their bowling is a nice all round look to it as well.

Pakistan will welcome the change of format though. It is ranked No. 3 in the International Cricket Council's T20I rankings and is among the most consistent sides in a format known for its unpredictability. Shahid Afridi, who retired from ODIs after the World Cup, will lead Pakistan and will look to inject some much-needed positivity into the camp.

Current form, momentum and home advantage point to Bangladesh. It wouldn't be wise, however, to rule out Pakistan in a format which is as unpredictable as its cricket.

Opinion

Rule by law

Rule by law

‘The rule of law’ is being weaponised, taking on whatever meaning that fits the political objectives of those invoking it.

Editorial

Isfahan strikes
Updated 20 Apr, 2024

Isfahan strikes

True de-escalation means Israel must start behaving like a normal state, not a rogue nation that threatens the entire region.
President’s speech
20 Apr, 2024

President’s speech

PRESIDENT Asif Ali Zardari seems to have managed to hit all the right notes in his address to the joint sitting of...
Karachi terror
20 Apr, 2024

Karachi terror

IS urban terrorism returning to Karachi? Yesterday’s deplorable suicide bombing attack on a van carrying five...
X post facto
Updated 19 Apr, 2024

X post facto

Our decision-makers should realise the harm they are causing.
Insufficient inquiry
19 Apr, 2024

Insufficient inquiry

UNLESS the state is honest about the mistakes its functionaries have made, we will be doomed to repeat our follies....
Melting glaciers
19 Apr, 2024

Melting glaciers

AFTER several rain-related deaths in KP in recent days, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority has sprung into...