DHAKA, Jan 27, (V7N) – Durbar Rajshahi boosted their chances of making the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) playoffs with a crucial five-wicket victory against Sylhet Strikers in a low-scoring thriller at Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium.

This win placed Rajshahi provisionally in third position with 12 points from 12 matches. Their playoff hopes now hinge on the performance of Chittagong Kings and Khulna Tigers, with Khulna needing to lose at least one of their remaining two matches to guarantee Rajshahi a spot in the top four. Rangpur Riders and Fortune Barishal have already secured their playoff berths.

The foundation for Rajshahi's victory was laid by the brilliant bowling performances of SM Meherob and Mrittunjoy Chowdhury, who combined to take seven wickets.

SM Meherob: Delivered a career-best spell of 4-15, dismantling Sylhet's middle order with his clever off-spin.

Mrittunjoy Chowdhury: Continued his impressive form, following up his 4-18 against Rangpur Riders with 3-33, slicing through Sylhet’s top order in the powerplay.

Sylhet struggled after being reduced to 19-3 and eventually managed a modest 117-9. Contributions from Ahsan Bhatti (25), Zakir Hasan (24), and Sumon Khan (20*) helped them cross the 100-run mark.

Rajshahi's chase was off to a shaky start, as Tanzim Hasan Sakib (2-17) reduced them to 22-4, putting Sylhet briefly in control. However, Ryan Burl and Akbar Ali steadied the innings with a match-defining 75-run partnership for the fifth wicket.

Akbar Ali: Scored a crucial 43 before being dismissed by Ahsan Bhatti, leaving Rajshahi on the brink of victory.

Ryan Burl: Remained unbeaten on 48 off 34 balls, smashing five fours and two sixes, including a four and a six in consecutive deliveries to seal the win.

Rajshahi completed the chase comfortably, reaching 121-5 with ease.

With this victory, Rajshahi's playoff hopes are alive but dependent on Khulna Tigers' results. They need Khulna to lose at least one of their final two matches to secure their spot in the top four.

For now, Rajshahi can take pride in their strong finish to the group stage, thanks to standout individual performances that have kept their campaign alive.

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