Jan 27 (V7N) - In the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) match between Rangpur Riders and Durbar Rajshahi at Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium on January 26, 2025, spinners Khushdil Shah and Rakibul Hasan starred with the ball, restricting Rajshahi to a meager 119-9. Khushdil claimed 3-19, while Rakibul took 2-21, dismantling a Rajshahi side that lacked foreign players and struggled to find local performers to step up.

Sunzamul Islam, batting at No. 9, top-scored with an unbeaten 28, ensuring Rajshahi crossed the 100-run mark after their innings seemed destined for a lower total. Contributions came from Akbar Ali (19) and skipper Taskin Ahmed (13*). The defeat jeopardized Rajshahi’s playoff chances, while Rangpur, already qualified, looked to maintain their momentum

In the same match, opener Soumya Sarkar made a return to competitive cricket after a prolonged absence due to a finger injury and viral fever. Soumya had been instrumental in Rangpur's Global Super League (GSL) triumph in the West Indies and was expected to be a key player in the BPL from the outset.

His injury during the Bangladesh national team's Caribbean tour in December 2024 and subsequent illness delayed his comeback. Before his setback, Soumya was in excellent form, scoring 73 in the final ODI and 43 in a T20 match against the West Indies. With a record of 16 Tests, 75 ODIs, and 87 T20Is, his return is a significant boost for Rangpur Riders.

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