Rangpur Riders made history in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) on Saturday, February 10, 2024, during a thrilling match at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium. With the first 200-plus total of the season, their brilliant batting outburst left Chattogram Challengers reeling.
Reeza Hendricks, the South African recruit, stole the show with a blistering knock of "58 off 41 balls". His innings featured five boundaries and three towering sixes, making him the top-scorer for Rangpur. In his BPL debut, Hendricks set the tone alongside fellow opener Rony Talukdar, who contributed a quickfire 24 off 17 balls.
Captain Nurul Hasan Sohan's decision to bat first paid off as the openers laid a solid foundation, amassing "61 runs in just 41 balls". The platform they built allowed the entire batting lineup to capitalize.
Chattogram's spinner Nihadduzaman provided the breakthrough by dismissing Rony. However, Hendricks and Shakib Al Hasan continued the assault, adding another 61 runs at a brisk pace. Shakib's 27 off 16 balls cameo included three boundaries and a six.
The final flourish came courtesy of James Neesham, who remained unbeaten on 51 off 26 balls. His explosive hitting, including five fours and three sixes, propelled Rangpur to a formidable 211-3.
Chasing the mammoth target, Chattogram faced an uphill battle. Despite a valiant effort, they managed only 158-6. Rangpur's bowlers, led by Neesham's 2-32 and Shakib's 2-24, stifled Chattogram's hopes. "Salahuddin Shakil" also played a crucial role, ending with 2-15 figures in just two overs.
Notably, South African leg-spinner "Imran Tahir", representing Rangpur for the first time this season, chipped in with a wicket, finishing with 1-28.
As the BPL drama unfolds, Rangpur Riders continue their relentless pursuit of victory, while Chattogram Challengers aim to bounce back in the upcoming matches.
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