Dhaka: The two traditional clubs of the country, Abahani Limited and Mohammedan Sporting Club, made a disappointing start to the Dhaka Premier League (DPL) by losing their respective matches at different venues across the city today.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, defending champions Abahani Limited suffered a six-wicket defeat to Agrani Bank Cricket Club at Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium. Meanwhile, Mohammedan Sporting Club, which had formed a strong team on paper, was stunned by newcomer Gulshan Cricket Club, which won by 107 runs at BKSP-3 ground.
Abahani, having released most of their top players from the previous season, were bowled out for 234 in 50 overs after being asked to bat first. This total proved insufficient as Agrani Bank Cricket Club reached 235-4 in 45 overs with ease. Imrul Kayes led the charge with a 94-run knock, supported by Amite Hasan's 44. The pair shared a 125-run stand for the third wicket after a solid opening partnership of 58 runs by Imranuzzman and Shadman Islam.
Mahfuzur Rabby managed to remove both Kayes and Amite in quick succession, denying them personal milestones. Abahani's batting line-up relied heavily on contributions from Parvez Hossain Emon and Mosaddek Hossain Saikat, who scored 50 and 73, respectively, amid a poor performance from the rest of the team. Shohidul Islam was instrumental for Agrani, taking 4-44, while Ruyel Mea and Shuvagata Hom claimed two wickets each.
In the other match, Gulshan Cricket Club amassed a formidable 298-8 after being put into bat first. Iftikhar Hossain Ifti's 108 off 110 balls was the highlight, supported by a 94-run partnership with Habibur Sheikh Munna. Despite Abu Haider Rony's 4-56, Mohammedan were unable to chase down the target, being bowled out for 191 in 40.2 overs. Skipper Tamim Iqbal's early dismissal set the tone for Mohammedan's struggle, with Ariful Islam's resistant 73 being the only bright spot. Azizul Hakim Tamim's crucial wicket of Ariful ended Mohammedan's hopes of a successful start in the DPL.