Dhaka, Dec 30 (V7N) — Fortune Barisal kicked off the new season of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) with a dramatic four-wicket victory over Durbar Rajshahi at the Mirpur Sher-e-Bangla Stadium. A spectacular partnership between Mahmudullah Riyad and Fahim Ashraf turned the tide after Barisal faced a near-certain defeat while chasing a daunting target of 198 runs.

Durbar Rajshahi, after losing the toss, posted an imposing 197/4, thanks to a stunning 94-run knock off 47 balls by Yasir Ali Rabbi. Yasir's innings included eight sixes and seven fours, while Enamul Haque contributed a solid 65 off 51 balls, hitting five sixes and four fours.

Barisal's chase seemed to crumble early, as they lost five wickets for just 61 runs in 8.1 overs. By the 13th over, the score stood at a precarious 112/6, with Rajshahi eyeing an easy victory. However, Mahmudullah Riyad and Fahim Ashraf had other plans.

Riyad, with his trademark composure, crafted a scintillating 56 off 26 balls, featuring five fours and four massive sixes at a strike rate of 215.38. Fahim Ashraf, equally devastating, smashed an unbeaten 54 off 21 balls, hammering seven sixes and one four. Together, they added an unbroken 88 runs off just 35 balls to secure the win with 11 balls to spare.

Shaheen Afridi also contributed with a quick 27 off 17 balls, including three sixes, while Towhid Hridoy scored a steady 32 off 23 balls.

The electrifying match drew a packed crowd to the Mirpur stadium, with fans scrambling for tickets days in advance. The atmosphere reached fever pitch with every boundary and six, particularly during Riyad's heroics, which left the gallery roaring with excitement.

Despite early setbacks, Fortune Barisal’s emphatic comeback highlights their strength and resilience, setting the stage for an exciting BPL season ahead.

END/RH/AJ