Asia Cup

At R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo, July 29, 2004 (day/night). Pakistan won by six wickets. Pakistan 5 pts, Bangladesh 1 pt. Toss: Bangladesh.

India's victory two days earlier left these sides fighting for pride only, and Pakistan were far too strong. Yet again, Bangladesh folded against the new ball, and inside eight overs they were staring down the barrel at 42 for five. Had Mohammad Sami not conceded 22 runs in the third over, Bangladesh's position would have been even more woeful. Sami had begun the match with a wicket maiden, so it came as a surprise when his second over proved so expensive. It included seven wides and four no-balls, lasted a world-record 17 balls, and raised a few eyebrows, especially given the meaningless nature of the contest. ICC anti-corruption officials are understood to have investigated, but took no action. The Pakistani explanation was that Sami was remodelling his action and struggling for rhythm. Thanks to 37 from Extras and a dogged half-century from Khaled Mashud, Bangladesh eventually cobbled together 166. Pakistan's top order made heavy weather of their target, using 41 overs and four wickets in the process. Once again Shoaib Malik, who top-scored with 48 and bowled ten economical overs earlier on, clinched the match award.

Man of the Match: Shoaib Malik.