Shamim’s rapid fifty off 20 balls helped Rangpur post a competitive total after Saifuddin and Fuller had put them in a difficult position.
Fortune Barishal, scoring 152 for 4 (Mushfiqur 47*, Mayers 28, Hider 2-37), defeated Rangpur Riders, who made 149 for 7 (Shamim 59*, Neesham 28, Fuller 3-25), by six wickets.
Fortune Barishal will face the Comilla Victorians in the Bangladesh Premier League 2024 final on Friday after defeating the Rangpur Riders by six wickets in the second qualifier at the packed Shere Bangla National Stadium. Mushfiqur Rahim led their chase of 150 with an unbeaten 47, following strong performances from Mohammad Saifuddin and James Fuller, who kept Rangpur in check.
Shamim Hossain smacked a 20-ball half-century to lift Rangpur at the death•BPL
Shamim Hossain’s unbeaten 59 off 24 was the only bright spot for Rangpur, keeping them in the game. However, Mushfiqur Rahim and Kyle Mayers ensured a risk-free chase for Barishal.
Mohammad Saifuddin made a pivotal impact in the second over of the Rangpur innings by taking two critical wickets. He began by dismissing Mahedi Hasan with a full, out-swinging delivery that breached Hasan’s defense and hit the stumps. Saifuddin’s influence continued as he sent Shakib Al Hasan packing with an edge well-caught by wicketkeeper Mushfiqur Rahim.
Rahim’s sharp reflexes and safe hands were crucial in securing both catches, putting Rangpur under immediate and significant pressure.
This early breakthrough by Saifuddin disrupted Rangpur’s momentum and established a strong foundation for Barishal’s dominance throughout the innings. The swift dismissals set the tone for the rest of the match. Barishal’s bowlers capitalized on the early success to maintain pressure and control over the game, eventually leading to a decisive victory.
After a trying eleven-ball stay, Rony Talukdar was dismissed at the deep square-leg boundary. Nicholas Pooran followed soon after, caught by Soumya Sarkar running in from long-on off a delivery from Mehidy Hasan Miraz. James Neesham was out on the next ball to Fuller, leaving Rangpur in a precarious position at 48 for five. Fuller continued his impact by removing Mohammad Nabi and Nurul Hasan in the 15th over, further solidifying Barishal’s advantage.
At 77 for seven, Rangpur seemed unlikely to recover. However, Shamim had other plans. He began his comeback with a switch-hit off Mehidy in the 16th over and then took Obed McCoy for 36 off his final eight balls. Twenty-six runs came in the penultimate over. Shamim first executed a switch-hit over deep third, followed by a pull shot over short fine leg for four. He then played a pick-up shot over midwicket before miscuing a scoop over the wicketkeeper’s head for a six. He concluded the over with an expansive cover drive, bringing up his 20-ball fifty, marking his first of the season.
Abu Hider quickly disrupted Barishal’s chase in the fourth over by dismissing Tamim Iqbal and Mehidy Hasan Miraz. After Tamim hit Hider for a four, he was caught out by a delivery straight to mid-off. Hider then had Mehidy trapped lbw for eight. Soumya Sarkar and Mushfiqur Rahim stabilized the innings with a 47-run stand for the third wicket. Soumya hit a six and two fours before being stumped by Mohammad Nabi for 22.
Kyle Mayers then charged in with 28 runs off 15 balls, including three towering sixes and a four. His most memorable shot was a signature back-foot punch six off Fazalhaq Farooqi, which showcased his power and precision just before he was dismissed. Mayers’ explosive innings significantly reduced Barishal’s required run rate to below a run per ball, putting them firmly in control. After Mayers’ departure, David Miller and Mushfiqur Rahim took over, forming a crucial 33-run partnership. Miller contributed 22 off 18 balls, while Mushfiqur provided steady support. Together, they guided Barishal to a comfortable victory with nine balls to spare, completing the chase efficiently and effectively.
Cheer on your favorite player! Visit our site to show them your support and make a difference.
Top Cricket News | Hathurusingha Often Turns Off The TV While Watching BPL | Bangladesh Premier League | Big Bash League | Cricket World Cup | Indian Premier League | Pakistan Super League | T20 Blast
