Pakistan Set for T20I Clash with Bangladesh Ahead of Asia Cup & T20 World Cup

In a strategic twist to their international calendar, Pakistan will tour Bangladesh for a 3-match T20I series from July 20–24, 2025, in what is being seen as a crucial preparatory step ahead of two major tournaments—the 2025 Asia Cup and the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup. 

 
🔁 Shift in Format: ODIs Out, T20Is In

Originally slated to play ODIs, the two cricket boards mutually agreed to switch the format to T20 Internationals, citing the need to fine-tune their squads for the high-paced demands of the T20 format.

“This is a tactical move. Both sides want to lock in their best combinations before the big events,” said a PCB official.

 
🔍 Why This Series Matters

Form & Fitness Checks: Pakistan will test their new talents and re-evaluate senior players like Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, and Mohammad Rizwan.

Bangladesh’s T20 Ambitions: With explosive youngsters like Towhid Hridoy and Tanzid Hasan, Bangladesh is looking to rebuild their T20 unit around aggressive batting and smart spin.

Mental Edge: Winning this series could provide either side with confidence and psychological advantage heading into the Asia Cup.

 
📅 Fixtures at a Glance:

1st T20I – July 20, 2025 – Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium, Dhaka

2nd T20I – July 22, 2025 – Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium, Chattogram

3rd T20I – July 24, 2025 – Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium, Dhaka

 My Take

This short T20I series isn’t just another bilateral series—it’s a litmus test. For Pakistan, it’s about tightening combinations. For Bangladesh, it’s about momentum, redemption, and experimentation. With world tournaments knocking, all eyes will be on performances, strategies, and stand-out players.