In an exhilarating finish at Darwin, Australia, Bangladesh A clinched a dramatic 5-run win over Pakistan A in the second and final four-day game, drawing the two-match series. Pakistan A, previously known as Pakistan Shaheens, had won the first game by 148 runs.

Resuming the final day at 136-4 and needing 160 more runs to secure victory, Pakistan A fell just six runs short of their target, bowled out for 290. The main architect of Bangladesh A's triumph was captain Mahmudul Hasan Joy, who delivered an outstanding all-round performance, finishing with figures of 5-21. Joy also contributed significantly with the bat, scoring 69 and 65 runs in his two innings.

Joy played a key role in keeping Bangladesh A in contention, dismissing Shahibzada Farhan for 68 on day three. On day four, with Bangladesh A needing six wickets to win, Joy removed Tayyab Tahir and Omair Yousuf, who scored 43 and 45 runs respectively. These breakthroughs were crucial as they halted Pakistan A’s progress.

The match saw a pivotal moment when overnight unbeaten batter Haseebullah Khan was dismissed for 51 by Rejaur Rahman Raja. Tahir and Yousuf then formed a 65-run partnership for the sixth wicket, briefly putting Pakistan A in control. However, Joy struck again, dismissing both in quick succession, giving Bangladesh A a glimmer of hope.

Mohammad Ali and Khrurram Shahzad provided staunch resistance, but Joy’s relentless performance continued as he dismissed both in consecutive overs. Shahzad scored 28, while Ali contributed 21. Hasan Murad eventually wrapped up Pakistan A’s innings by removing Faisal Akram for just 1 run, securing Bangladesh A’s narrow victory.

Bangladesh A, put in to bat first, was bowled out for 258 in their first innings, with Aich Mollah providing solid support to Joy with 55 runs. Pakistan A responded with 179, giving Bangladesh A a 79-run lead. In their second innings, Bangladesh A scored 216, setting a victory target of 296. Mollah again contributed with a score of 58, further supporting Joy’s efforts.

This thrilling encounter showcased Joy’s exceptional leadership and all-round capabilities, ensuring Bangladesh A ended the series on a high note despite their earlier defeat.