Dhaka,Mirpur, Jan 02 (V7N) - Rangpur Riders comfortably defeated Fortune Barishal by 8 wickets, chasing down a modest target of 125 runs with 30 balls to spare at the Shere Bangla National Stadium.

Player of the Match, Saif Hassan, anchored the Riders' chase with an unbeaten 62 off 46 balls, featuring 6 fours and 3 sixes. His partnership with Alex Hales (49* off 41) ensured Rangpur's emphatic win despite losing two early wickets.

Barishal, opting to bat first, managed only 124 runs in 18.2 overs. Opener Tamim Iqbal top-scored with 28, while Barishal's middle and lower order failed to provide resistance. Effective bowling by Rangpur Riders, led by Khushdil Shah (3/18) and Nahid Rana (2/32), kept the pressure on throughout.

Khushdil Shah dismissed key Barishal players and maintained a tight economy.

Iftikhar Ahmed chipped in with 2 wickets, contributing to Barishal’s collapse.

Despite an early scare with two wickets falling for just 15 runs, Saif Hassan and Alex Hales stabilized the innings. Rangpur reached the target in just 15 overs, highlighting their efficient performance.

With this win, Rangpur Riders earned 2 points, further strengthening their position in the tournament. Fortune Barishal failed to capitalize on their early opportunities and remain without points.

The Riders’ clinical display, with both bat and ball, cements their status as strong contenders in the 2025 BPL season.

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