Pakistan wins first T20I against Bangladesh at Gaddafi Stadium
Pakistan defeated Bangladesh by 37 runs in the opening match of the three-game T20I series held at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, on Wednesday, 29 May 2025. The victory gives the hosts a 1-0 lead ahead of the second match, scheduled for Friday, 30 May, at the same venue.
Diplomatic presence highlights Bangladesh-Pakistan cricket ties
The match was attended by H.E. Mohammad Iqbal Hussain Khan, High Commissioner of Bangladesh to Pakistan, along with Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) Director and Chairman of the Cricket Operations Committee, Mr Nazmul Abedin Fahim.
Speaking to PCB Digital during the match, H.E. Khan shared his experience at the iconic stadium:
H.E. Mohammad Iqbal Hussain Khan: “I have witnessed a cricket match for the first time at the Gaddafi Stadium and had a great time here. I am delighted to see the crowd coming to the stadium and enjoying the match.”
Bangladesh Cricket Board praises venue upgrades and fan support
BCB Director Mr Nazmul Abedin Fahim also commended the stadium’s recent upgrades and praised the atmosphere created by fans:
Mr Nazmul Abedin Fahim: “The stadium has gone through some changes recently and is now a very modern venue. It was a great gesture from the fans here to support the Bangladesh team’s performance as well.
I have been here before—the hospitality and love for cricket are simply outstanding.”
The presence of senior diplomatic and cricketing figures underscored the deep cricketing ties between Bangladesh and Pakistan, while also marking an important moment for cricket diplomacy and fan engagement in Lahore.
