Dhaka, Dec 30 (V7N): Rangpur Riders began their Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) campaign with a resounding 40-run victory over Dhaka Capitals, thanks to a stellar all-round performance by Khushdil Shah and a superb bowling effort by Mahedi Hasan at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium.

Rangpur’s Batting Powerhouse
After being put to bat, Rangpur Riders posted a formidable 191/6. Despite losing openers Steven Smith and Alex Hales early, a resilient 89-run partnership between Saif Hasan and Iftikhar Ahmed stabilized the innings.

Saif contributed 40 off 33 balls, hitting two fours and two sixes, while Iftikhar top-scored with 49 off 38 balls, smashing eight boundaries.

Khushdil Shah delivered the late fireworks, hammering an unbeaten 46 off 23 balls, including three sixes and as many fours. Skipper Nurul Hasan Sohan added a blistering 25 off 11 balls to propel Rangpur to a challenging total.

Dhaka’s Bowling Highlights
Alauddin Babu, the standout bowler for Dhaka, claimed 3/43, while Mukidul Islam chipped in with 2/27. Despite their efforts, Rangpur’s strong finish proved decisive.

Dhaka’s Response Falls Short
Dhaka Capitals started brightly, with Tanzid Hasan Tamim and Liton Das putting up a solid 65-run opening stand. However, their chase unraveled as Mahedi Hasan spun a web around the Capitals, taking 4/27, including two wickets in each of his overs to turn the tide.

Liton Das scored 31, and Tanzid added 30, but the middle order crumbled under pressure. Khushdil Shah followed up his batting heroics with 2/15, ensuring Dhaka could only muster 151/9 in their 20 overs.Rangpur’s comprehensive victory highlighted their all-round strength, with Khushdil Shah and Mahedi Hasan stealing the show. The Riders look poised as strong contenders for the BPL title, while Dhaka Capitals will aim to regroup ahead of their next game.

END/LSP/RH/