Barishal continue dominance with thrilling victory over Khulna

Fortune Barishal extended their winning streak in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) by defeating Khulna Tigers by five wickets at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur. 

Chasing a formidable target of 188, Barishal clinched the win with five balls to spare, marking their fifth consecutive victory.  

Barishal's chase got off to a shaky start as the opening pair of Tamim Iqbal and Towhid Hridoy managed only 11 runs. However, the innings stabilized thanks to a stellar 91-run stand between captain Tamim Iqbal and Dawid Malan. Malan was the star of the match, scoring a blistering 63 off 37 balls with eight fours and three sixes. Tamim supported with a steady 27.  

Khulna briefly turned the game in their favor during the 17th over, dismissing Mahmudullah Riyad and Mushfiqur Rahim in quick succession, leaving Barishal needing 36 runs from 22 balls.  

However, Mohammad Nabi and Faheem Ashraf ensured there were no further hiccups. The pair added an unbeaten 36 runs off just 16 deliveries, with Nabi contributing 15 and Faheem finishing with a quickfire 18, securing the victory.  

Earlier, Khulna Tigers posted a competitive total of 187/5 after being sent in to bat. Openers Naim Sheikh and Mehidy Hasan Miraz provided a strong foundation with a 47-run partnership. Miraz scored a quick 29 off 15 balls, while Naim blasted a 27-ball 51, including five fours and three sixes.  

Khulna�s middle order added vital runs, with Alex Ross, William Bosisto, and Afif Hossain scoring 20, 20, and 32 runs respectively. Mahidul Islam Ankon provided the finishing touch with an explosive unbeaten 27 off 12 balls, hitting three sixes and two fours to propel Khulna to 187.  

Despite Khulna�s strong performance, Barishal�s composed chase ensured they remained the team to beat in this year�s tournament.