ODI no. 3267

What a stunning match between Bangladesh and Pakistan.

When their gut-wrenching disappointment dies down, Bangladesh will remember that they were just one stroke away from the Asia Cup title. And see it as clinching evidence of their progress. When their sense of relief passes, Pakistan will remember that they were tested to the hilt, but came through somehow. And see it as confirmation of their renowned ability to win the big moments.

Bangladesh were two runs short of their greatest triumph. Only once has a team defeated India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka in a single tournament. That was in the World Cup 2003 when the all-conquering Aussies crushed everyone. Bangladesh could have become the second team to perform the same feat. Instead, they fell so agonizingly short.

The Pakistanis had to squeeze every ounce of discipline from their bowling to win this one. Afridi, Hafeez and Ajmal provided the best bowling figures. Gul got hit for a few fours in the end which ruined his figures a bit. Their batting was disappointing considering that they scored an extra 100 runs against India less than a week ago. Hafeez was too lethargic. Afridi and especially Ahmed made the important contributions with the bat.

Other stats from the historic match.