Khulna Tigers secured a commanding 37-run victory over Chattogram Kings in the first match of the BPL 2024 at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium on Tuesday.
The game was marked by record-breaking performances and an explosive inning by Shamim Hossain that fell short of securing a win for Chattogram.
Batting first, Khulna posted an imposing 203 for 4, thanks to a solid anchor role by Australian opener William Bosisto and a record-breaking blitz from Mahidul Islam Ankon. Bosisto scored a measured 75 off 50 balls, smashing eight boundaries and three sixes, a stark contrast to his previous struggles in T20 cricket.
Ankon stole the show with an electrifying 59 off just 22 balls, including six towering sixes and a single four. He reached his fifty in just 18 deliveries, setting a new record for the fastest fifty by a Bangladeshi player in BPL history.
In their chase, Chattogram Kings crumbled early, reeling at 56 for 6 despite a fighting knock from Shamim Hossain. Shamim smashed a brilliant 78 off 38 balls, keeping his team�s hopes alive with his aggressive hitting. His valiant effort, however, came to an end in the 19th over, effectively ending Chattogram's pursuit as they were bowled out for 166.
Khulna�s Abu Hider Rony led the bowling attack, taking 4 wickets for 44 runs in 3.5 overs. Meanwhile, Aliss Al Islam was the standout bowler for Chattogram, delivering an economical spell of 2 for 17 in 4 overs.
The victory sets a strong tone for Khulna�s campaign, while Chattogram will look to regroup and bounce back in their next match.
