|| CF Correspondent  ||

Rajshahi Royals bowlers bowled in disciplined way to hold Sylhet Thunder back to 143-6 in their 10th match of the Bangabandhu Bangladesh Premier League (BBPL) at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium on Saturday.

It was all team effort from Rajshahi bowlers as they bowled well in partnership to complement each other.

Mohammad Mithun was the highest scorer for Sylhet with 38 ball-47, striking three fours and two sixes. He kept the scoreboard ticking after a slow start that saw Sylhet being reduced to 36-2 after the first powerplay. The situation worsened further when captain Andre Fletcher was dismissed on 8.

Mithun along with Sherfan Rutherford tried to revive the innings but an unfortunate run-out led his dismissal, further pushing Sylhet back.

Alok Kalapi then triggered a collapse, removing Rutherford and Sohag Gazi in consecutive deliveries.

Rutherford made 25 off 11 with two fours and as many sixes.

Sylhet’s lower order batsmen however failed to come up with big hit and eventually restricted to a total that looked paltry against mighty batting line up of Rajshahi.

Kapali delivered just one over and took two, conceding 14 runs. Abu Jayed Rahi and Mohammad Irfan picked up one wicket apiece. Mohammad Nawaz who opened the bowling couldn’t take any wicket but stifled Sylhet, giving away just 15 runs in his four overs.

Sylhet had already lost nine in 10 matches and another defeat would keep them win-less at their home venue. Rajshahi who has 12 points in nine matches, would seal the play-off in case of a victory, that looked highly likely.