DHAKA: Fast bowler Taskin Ahmed delivered a standout performance, claiming seven wickets for just 19 runs, to lead Durbar Rajshahi to a commanding seven-wicket victory over Dhaka Capitals. This triumph marks Rajshahi's first win in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium, setting a new record for the best bowling figures in the tournament's history.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Taskin's exceptional bowling restricted Dhaka Capitals to 174-9, a total that seemed within reach on a batting-friendly pitch. The 7-wicket haul is the third-best in recognized T20 cricket, underscoring Taskin's remarkable achievement. His performance thwarted Dhaka's chances of surpassing the 200-run mark, a target they appeared poised to reach.
Dhaka's innings began with a setback as Taskin removed Liton Das for a duck and Tanzid Hasan Tamim for just 9 runs, reducing them to 14-2. While Taskin's fellow bowlers struggled to exert similar dominance, Dhaka's Shahadat Hossain Dipu, who top-scored with 50, and Stephen Eskinazi, contributing 46, forged a 79-run partnership for the third wicket, stabilizing their innings.
Taskin's return to the bowling attack was pivotal; he dismissed Dipu and Chaturanga de Silva, and in a dramatic last over, claimed three more wickets, ensuring Dhaka could only set a moderate target. Rajshahi's chase began shakily at 73-3, but a crucial 106-run partnership between captain Anamul Haque Bijoy and Zimbabwean recruit Ryan Burl steered them to a successful 179-3.
Bijoy's unbeaten 73 off 46 balls, adorned with nine fours and three sixes, along with Burl's 55 not out off 33 balls, helped Rajshahi recover from early setbacks. Bijoy sealed the victory with a six off Mukidul Islam Mugdho.
Rajshahi had previously suffered a four-wicket defeat to Fortune Barishal, while Dhaka fell to Rangpur Riders by 40 runs in their opening match. This win offers Rajshahi a vital boost in their BPL campaign.