DHAKA, Jan 01, (V7N)– Fast bowler Nahid Rana continued his excellent form, leading the Rangpur Riders to a 34-run victory over the Sylhet Strikers in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium today.

Rangpur’s Batting Performance

Opting to bat first, Rangpur Riders posted a modest total of 155-6. The innings was anchored by Pakistan recruit Iftikhar Ahmed, who scored an unbeaten 47 off 42 balls, including four fours and a six.

Skipper Nurul Hasan Sohan played a vital role, smashing 41 off 24 balls with four boundaries and two sixes, stabilizing the innings after a shaky start. Sohan and Iftikhar added 65 runs for the fifth wicket, lifting the team from 69-4 in the 12th over.

Mahedi Hasan chipped in with a quickfire 16 off eight balls to help Rangpur cross the 150-mark.

Sylhet’s Chase Falters

In response, Sylhet Strikers struggled to build momentum, finishing at 121-9 in their 20 overs. Nahid Rana was the star with the ball, taking 4-27, including the crucial wicket of Jaker Ali (24), who had formed a 48-run stand with Rony Talukdar (41).

Rana’s breakthrough triggered a collapse, with Khushdil Shah removing Rony to end Sylhet’s hopes of recovery. Khushdil (2-24) and Mohammad Saifuddin (2-29) provided excellent support to complement Rana’s efforts.

Rangpur Riders:

Iftikhar Ahmed: 47* (42 balls, 4x4, 1x6)

Nurul Hasan Sohan: 41 (24 balls, 4x4, 2x6)

Nahid Rana: 4-27

Sylhet Strikers:

Rony Talukdar: 41 (team-high)

Jaker Ali: 24

Best Bowler: Khushdil Shah: 2-24

This victory follows Rangpur Riders' 40-run win over Dhaka Capitals in their opening game, positioning them as early contenders in the tournament.

The team’s next challenge will test their consistency as they aim to maintain their unbeaten streak in the BPL.

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