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.
