Hridoy outshines Eisakhil as Rangpur Riders seal 3rd place

Tawhid Hridoy produced a commanding century to overshadow Hassan Eisakhil’s blazing hundred, steering Rangpur Riders to an emphatic eight-wicket victory over Noakhali Express at Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium on Sunday. 

The crucial win in the final group-stage match lifted Rangpur to third place in the standings.

For much of the first innings, the spotlight belonged to Eisakhil. After a cautious beginning, the Noakhali batter unleashed a devastating late assault, remaining unbeaten on 107 from 72 balls. His innings, studded with 11 sixes, powered the Express to a strong total of 173, with 75 runs coming in the last five overs; including a punishing 28-run final over off Akif Javed.

Rangpur’s reply, however, was defined by Hridoy’s authority and composure. In contrast to Eisakhil’s late surge, Hridoy dominated from the outset, combining clean hitting with precise placement. He struck a superb 109 from 63 balls, peppering the boundary 15 times and keeping the chase firmly under control.

Captain Litton Das played a steady supporting role with an unbeaten 39, but it was Hridoy’s sustained aggression that dismantled Noakhali’s defense. Although he was dismissed in the 19th over with just nine runs required, the outcome was already beyond doubt.

Rangpur crossed the line with two balls to spare, finishing on 174 for 2, as Hridoy’s masterful century proved decisive in securing both the win and a top-three finish.

SH