In a thrilling encounter at Mirpur's Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium, Fortune Barisal emerged victorious over Rangpur Riders by six wickets in the second qualifier match of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL). The clash between the star-studded lineups led by Shakib Al Hasan and Tamim Iqbal added excitement to the unanticipated semi-final showdown.

Barisal captain Tamim Iqbal opted to bowl after winning the toss, putting Rangpur in to bat first. Rangpur faced an early batting collapse, with three top-order batsmen failing to make significant contributions. Despite the stumble, Rangpur managed to post a competitive total of 149 runs, largely thanks to Shamim Hasan's explosive innings of 59 runs off just 24 balls, supported by James Neesham's 28 runs. Barisal's James Fuller proved instrumental with the ball, claiming three crucial wickets.

In response, Barisal faced a shaky start to their chase, losing both openers early on. However, Soumya Sarkar and Mushfiqur Rahim steadied the innings, with Kyle Myers later contributing a quickfire 28 runs off 15 balls. With 22 runs needed from the last four overs and six wickets in hand, Barisal sealed the victory with Mushfiqur Rahim's six. Abu Haider Rony was the standout bowler for Rangpur, picking up two wickets.

Mushfiqur Rahim's stellar performance earned him the title of Man of the Match, with 47 runs off 38 balls and four catches to his name.

Despite finishing as table-toppers in the league phase, Shakib Al Hasan's team faltered in both opportunities presented during the playoffs.

The stage is now set for the mega final of the 10th season of BPL, scheduled to take place at Mirpur's Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium on Friday, March 1, at 6:30 pm. Four-time champions Comilla Victorians will lock horns with Fortune Barisal in what promises to be an electrifying finale.