In a dazzling display of skill, Shakib Al Hasan led Rangpur Riders to a resounding 78-run triumph against Khulna Tigers in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) showdown on Tuesday. The dynamic all-rounder showcased his prowess with both bat and ball, contributing significantly to his team's commanding performance at the Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium in Chattogram.

Shakib's stellar performance included a scintillating 31-ball 69 with the bat, embellished with six fours and six sixes. His aggressive innings, coupled with a solid 109-run partnership alongside Mahedi Hasan (60 off 36 balls), propelled Rangpur to a formidable total of 219-5, the highest of the season thus far.

In addition to his batting heroics, Shakib also made a significant impact with the ball, claiming two crucial wickets for 30 runs. His exceptional all-round contribution was instrumental in restricting Khulna Tigers to a mere 141 runs in 18.2 overs.

Rangpur's captain, Nurul Hasan Sohan, also played a vital role with an explosive 13-ball 32 not out, further bolstering his team's imposing total.

Despite a valiant effort from Alex Hales, who impressed with a debut knock of 60 off 33 balls, supported by Luke Wood's 20 runs, Khulna Tigers struggled to mount a successful chase against Rangpur's formidable bowling attack.

Former South African leg-spinner Imran Tahir emerged as the bowling spearhead for Rangpur, clinching a remarkable 5-wicket haul for 26 runs in his four overs. Shakib, complementing Tahir's performance, dismissed key batsmen Evin Lewis and Mohammad Nawaz, further solidifying Rangpur's dominance.

Reflecting on his stellar performance, Shakib expressed satisfaction with his contribution to the team's victory and voiced confidence in maintaining his form in the upcoming matches.

Khulna Tigers' coach, Russell Domingo, acknowledged Rangpur's superior performance, emphasizing the need for his team to regroup and stage a comeback in the subsequent matches to secure a spot in the playoffs.