DHAKA: Rangpur Riders began their Bangladesh Premier League campaign with a commanding 40-run win against Dhaka Capitals, driven by an impressive allround performance from Pakistan’s Khushdil Shah at Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Khushdil Shah played a pivotal role by scoring an unbeaten 46 off 23 balls, including three fours and three sixes, to help Rangpur post a formidable total of 191-6. He continued to shine with the ball, claiming 2-15, which helped restrict Dhaka to 151-9.
Offspinner Mahedi Hasan was instrumental in Rangpur’s victory as well, taking 4-27. His performance solidified Rangpur’s position as one of the top contenders for the BPL title. Iftikhar Ahmed contributed a team-best 49 runs after Rangpur was asked to bat first. Despite losing openers Steven Smith and Alex Hales early, Iftikhar and Saif Hasan formed a crucial 89-run partnership for the third wicket, setting a solid foundation.
Saif Hasan, who hit two fours and two sixes, was dismissed by Alauddin Babu, providing Dhaka with a chance to limit Rangpur to a lower total. Babu, the highest wicket-taker in the recently concluded NCL T20, further boosted Dhaka’s hopes by dismissing Iftikhar, who scored 49 off 38 balls with eight fours. However, Khushdil capitalized on the platform to propel Rangpur to a winning total, aided by captain Nurul Hasan Sohan’s quick 25 off 11 balls. Dhaka’s Alauddin Babu ended with figures of 3-43, while fast bowler Mukidul Islam Mugdho took 2-27.
Dhaka Capitals had a promising start with Tanzid Hasan Tamim and Liton Das putting up a 65-run opening stand, creating an initial threat to chase the target comfortably. However, Mahedi Hasan triggered a collapse by taking four wickets in two overs, reducing Dhaka from 65-0 in 7.2 overs to 75-4 in 9.5 overs. Liton Das scored 31, the highest for Dhaka, while Tanzid Tamim added 30.
Khushdil Shah further dismantled Dhaka’s batting lineup, ensuring a smooth victory for Rangpur Riders, who were confident after their strong batting display.