"Fortune Barisal erupted in a thrilling Bangladesh Premier League clash against Sylhet Strikers, securing a commanding 49-run victory. After enduring a four-game losing streak, Barisal bounced back in the match, showcasing stellar batting and disciplined bowling to outclass the hosts."
Fortune Barisal showed great batting skills in the first innings. They amassed a challenging total of 186/5 in their 20 overs. Opener Tamim Iqbal could not do much in this match. Ahmed Shehzad and Soumya's steady 50 runs were the foundation of Barisal.
Barisal amassed a substantial innings thanks to Shehzad's outstanding 66-run innings. The explosive combination of 52 runs from 18 balls by Barisal, even after the Riyad-Mehdi pair had cut Soumya Sarkar (20) and Mushfiqur Rahim (22), left Sylhet bewildered. With 52 runs without a loss, Riyadh set a difficult goal for Sylhet—187 runs. A strong finish was guaranteed by Mehdi Hasan Miraj's quick 9-ball 15 in the final overs.
Chasing a mammoth target, Sylhet Strikers faced early setbacks, losing opener Nazmul Hossain Shanto. Despite commendable performances from Benny Howell and Zakir Hasan, Barishal's bowlers proved to be the difference-maker. Mohammad Imran emerged as the hero with an exceptional spell, claiming 4 wickets for 29 runs. His precision and control dismantled the Strikers' batting order. Akif Javed and Mehdi Hasan Miraj complemented Imran's brilliance, each contributing with two crucial wickets.
Striker captain Mashrafe Bin Mortaza won the toss and sent Barisal to bat. Both teams are desperate to taste victory after losing consecutive matches. Shamsur Rahman joined the team as the replacement of Md. Mithun. Leaving Zakir Hasan, he handled the initial shock of the opening well. Shamsur Rahman was out for 25 runs. Team captain Mashrafe Bin Mortuza was promoted in the batting order to set the wheel of runs in motion. But still could not do very well. He quickly stepped into the pavilion. Benny Howell and Zakir Hasan's 42-ball 58 could not guide Sylhet.
Even at their home ground, Sylhet was unable to see the face of triumph. After winning the opening encounter, Barisal went on a four-game losing streak. They will try to pick up some confidence by defeating Sylhet Strikers by 49 runs, which will support them in keeping up their winning run.
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