Cricket fans are buzzing with excitement as Pakistan takes on Bangladesh in a thrilling three-match T20I series starting May 28, 2025, at Lahore’s iconic Gaddafi Stadium. This series marks a major moment for both teams, with Pakistan led by Salman Ali Agha and Bangladesh captained by Litton Das. But there’s a twist: the matches will be played without the Decision Review System (DRS), sparking debates among fans.
The Pakistan vs Bangladesh T20I series kicks off on May 28, 2025, with all three matches set to take place at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore. Here’s the full schedule:
Originally, a five-match series was planned to start on May 25. However, due to scheduling conflicts with the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) final, which was postponed to May 25 because of tensions between Pakistan and India, the series was shortened to three matches and rescheduled.
Both teams have announced strong line-ups for the series. Here’s a look at the players representing Pakistan and Bangladesh:
Led by captain Salman Ali Agha, Pakistan’s squad is packed with talent, blending experienced players and rising stars:
Litton Das leads a competitive Bangladesh side, featuring a mix of young players and seasoned campaigners:
Team | Key Batsmen | Key Bowlers |
Pakistan | Fakhar Zaman, Saim Ayub | Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah |
Bangladesh | Litton Das, Najmul Hossain Shanto | Mustafizur Rahman, Shoriful Islam |
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has appointed experienced officials to oversee the series. Ranjan Madugalle, a member of the ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees, will lead the playing control teams. Madugalle, who has officiated 804 international matches across all formats, brings unmatched expertise.
Here’s the breakdown of umpires for each match:
All umpires are part of the PCB International Panel or ICC Elite Panel, ensuring high-quality officiating despite the absence of DRS.
A major talking point for the Pak vs Ban series is the absence of the Decision Review System (DRS). This technology, which allows teams to challenge umpiring decisions, is a standard feature in modern international cricket. However, the PCB has confirmed that DRS will not be available due to the unavailability of technical staff.
The staff responsible for operating DRS have not returned since the HBL PSL, which also lacked the system. The Bangladesh team has been informed, and both sides will rely on traditional umpiring for the series. While this has raised concerns among some fans about the accuracy of decisions, both teams are prepared to adapt.
On May 27, 2025, at 6:15 PM PKT, the Pakistan vs Bangladesh T20I series trophy will be unveiled at Gaddafi Stadium. Following the unveiling, captains Salman Ali Agha and Litton Das will address the media in a joint press conference. This event will set the stage for what promises to be an exciting contest between two competitive teams.
The Pakistan vs Bangladesh T20I series 2025 is a key moment for both teams as they prepare for upcoming global tournaments. For Pakistan, it’s a chance to fine-tune their T20 strategy under new leadership. For Bangladesh, it’s an opportunity to build momentum and test their young talent against a strong opponent.
With no DRS, the series might see some controversial moments, but it also brings back the charm of traditional cricket, where umpires’ decisions are final. Fans can expect high-energy matches at Gaddafi Stadium, with both teams fighting for bragging rights.
A: The series includes three matches on May 28, May 30, and June 1, 2025, all at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, starting at 8:00 PM PKT.
A: The Decision Review System (DRS) is unavailable due to the absence of technical staff, who have not returned since the HBL PSL.
A: Pakistan is led by Salman Ali Agha, while Bangladesh is captained by Litton Das.
A: Check local broadcasters or streaming platforms like the PCB’s official channels for live coverage of the matches.
A: Watch out for Pakistan’s Fakhar Zaman and Haris Rauf, and Bangladesh’s Litton Das and Mustafizur Rahman.