Rajshahi Cruise to Easy Win as Noakhalis Batting Collapses

Rajshahi Warriors registered a comfortable six-wicket victory over Noakhali Express in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) after a poor batting display from the Noakhali side. At the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium, Rajshahi chased down the modest target of 125 runs in just 17.5 overs.

Winning the toss, Rajshahi Warriors opted to field first and their bowlers put immediate pressure on Noakhali’s batting lineup. Noakhali lost early wickets and struggled to settle at the crease. Opener Habibur Rahman Sohan was dismissed for just five runs, increasing the pressure on the batting unit.

Maaz Sadaqat and Haider Ali attempted to build some resistance in the middle overs. Maaz scored 25 off 19 balls, while Haider Ali was the top scorer for Noakhali with 33 runs. However, the lack of any substantial partnership meant Noakhali continued to lose wickets at regular intervals. They eventually managed only 124 for 8 in their allotted 20 overs.

Rajshahi bowler Ripon Mondol delivered a standout performance with the ball, claiming four wickets for just 13 runs with disciplined bowling. Tanzim Hasan Sakib also contributed effectively, picking up two wickets. The collective bowling effort ensured Noakhali were restricted to a below-par total.

In reply, Rajshahi Warriors did not have the best of starts but quickly regained momentum. Opener Tanzid Hasan Tamim played an aggressive knock, scoring 29 runs off 20 balls, while captain Najmul Hossain Shanto added 24 runs to steady the chase.

Although Rajshahi lost a few wickets in the middle, experienced campaigner Mushfiqur Rahim anchored the innings with a composed performance. He remained unbeaten on 28 off 30 balls, guiding his team to victory. Yasir Ali provided valuable support, remaining not out on 23.

Rajshahi Warriors eventually reached the target in 17.5 overs with four wickets in hand. The win earned them two crucial points in the tournament, while Noakhali Express left the field disappointed after suffering their third consecutive defeat due to another batting failure.