Jan 28 (V7N) -Fortune Barishal, led by Tamim Iqbal, clinched their spot in the qualifiers of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) 2025 with a thrilling five-wicket victory over Khulna Tigers at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium on Monday. They chased down a target of 188 runs with five balls to spare, reinforcing their strong position in the league.

Barishal now shares the top spot with Rangpur Riders, both securing 16 points from 10 matches. However, Rangpur edges ahead due to a better net run rate (1.070 vs. Barishal's 1.033).

Barishal has two remaining league matches against Dhaka Capital (Jan 29) and Chittagong Kings (Feb 1).

With the loss, Khulna Tigers remain at 8 points from 10 matches, leaving their playoff hopes hanging by a thread.

Khulna Tigers' Innings (187/5 in 20 overs):

Sent to bat, Khulna Tigers posted a competitive 187 for 5.

Mohammad Naim: 51 off 27 (5 fours, 3 sixes)

Afif Hossain: 32 off 25

Mehidy Hasan Miraz: 29 off 24

Faheem Ashraf, continuing his fine form, took 2/49, following his stunning 5-wicket haul in the previous match.

Fortune Barishal's Chase (188/5 in 19.1 overs):

Chasing 188, Fortune Barishal achieved the target comfortably thanks to an outstanding knock by Dawid Malan.

Dawid Malan: 63 off 37 (8 fours, 3 sixes)

Tamim Iqbal: 27 off 23

Mahmudullah & Mushfiqur Rahim: 24 each

Faheem Ashraf (18*) and Mohammad Nabi (15*) finished off the chase.

Abu Hider Rony claimed 2/35, but the total proved insufficient.

Fortune Barishal:

vs. Dhaka Capital (Jan 29)

vs. Chittagong Kings (Feb 1)

Rangpur Riders:

vs. Chittagong Kings (Jan 29)

vs. Khulna Tigers (Jan 30)

With this win, Fortune Barishal looks poised to make a deep run in the playoffs, aiming to defend their championship title.

END/SD/RH/