In a commanding display at the Shere Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur, the Khulna Tigers secured a 37-run victory over the Chattogram Kings in the third match of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) on Tuesday.
The Kings won the toss and elected to field inviting the Tigers to bat first. The Tigers accepted the invitation warmly and amassed a formidable total of 203 for four in their allotted 20 overs despite losing all four wickets cheaply. Naim Sheikh got off to a good start with 26 off 17 but failed to convert, while skipper Mehidy Hasan Miraz came to bat at one-down and departed after a run-a-ball 18. Quick dismissals of Ibrahim Zadran (6) and Afif Hossain Dhrubo (8) pushed the Tigers onto the backfoot momentarily. However, they recovered brilliantly riding on the bats of Englishman William Bosisto and wicketkeeper-batter Mahidul Islam Ankon.
Bosisto and Ankon put together an 86-run stand for the fifth wicket to steady the ship. Bosisto anchored the innings with 75 off 50 deliveries showcasing a blend of patience and aggression. Ankon meanwhile, demolished the Kings' bowling attack with a stormy 59 off just 22 balls featuring one boundary and six sixes providing the late impetus to propel the Tigers past the 200-run mark.
Alis Al Islam and Khaled Ahmed shared the wickets for the Kings equally each taking two wickets.
In response, the Chattogram Kings faced early setbacks losing wickets at regular intervals. Shamim Hossain Patowari emerged as the lone warrior for the Kings, crafting a valiant 78 off 38 balls. However, his efforts proved insufficient as the team was bowled out for 166 falling short of the target by 37 runs.
Abu Hider Rony was the pick of the bowlers for the Tigers claiming four wickets. Mohammad Nawaz grabbed two wickets, while Miraz, Oshane Thomas, Hasan Mahmud and Nasum Ahmed chipped in with one wicket apiece.
Mahidul Islam Ankon of Khulna Tigers was named the Player of the Match for his explosive innings.
