In a commanding display at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium, the Rangpur Riders secured a seven-wicket victory over the Dhaka Capitals in the 11th match of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) 2024-2025 on Tuesday to solidify their position at the top of the points table.
Despite the inclusion of players like Jason Roy and Mosaddek Hossain Saikat, Dhaka Capitals' struggles continued. After being put in to bat, they faltered against a disciplined Rangpur bowling attack and were bowled out for a modest 111 runs in 16.3 overs. Roy contributed a quick 18 off 12 balls, while Mosaddek managed 12 runs only.
Tanzid Hasan, promoted to bat at number three, top-scored for Dhaka with 20 runs. Alauddin Babu added 16, while opener Habibur Rahman Sohan chipped in with 14 runs.
Liton Das continued batting woes and was dismissed for nine runs, Sabbir Rahman (2) and skipper Thisara Perera (0) also failed to contribute in team's need.
For Rangpur, Nahid Rana was the standout bowler delivering a fiery spell to claim three crucial wickets for just 21 runs. Akif Javed and Khushdil Shah bagged two wickets each, while Sheikh Mahedi Hasan, Kamrul Islam Rabbi and Iftikhar Ahmed took one wicket apiece.
In response, Rangpur Riders comfortably chased down the target reaching 113 for three in just 13.2 overs. Although opener Azizul Hakim Tamim was dismissed cheaply for five, Alex Hales anchored the innings with a scintillating 44 off 27 balls smashing four boundaries and three sixes. Khushdil Shah (27) and Iftikhar Ahmed (9) remained unbeaten to wrap-up the match in style.
The Dhaka Capitals' bowling attack struggled to contain the Riders' batsmen. Mustafizur Rahman was the most economical taking one for 23 in his four overs, while Alauddin Babu and Mosaddek shared one wicket apiece.
Nahid Rana's exceptional spell earned him the Player of the Match award highlighting his pivotal role in Rangpur's victory.
