Captain Tamim sails Barishal’s boat to victory over Rajshahi
Tamim Iqbal plays a shot against Rajshahi, Cricfrenzy
Chasing a target of 169, Barishal’s start was shaky as opener Pritom Kumar fell for just 3 runs, leaving the team at 12/1. However, Kyle Mayers, batting at number three, launched a counterattack with a quickfire 24 off 12 balls, including three boundaries and two sixes, boosting the team’s confidence.
Building on Mayers’ momentum, Tamim Iqbal showcased his class with a stunning half-century, punishing the likes of Taskin Ahmed and Shariful Islam. Despite the loss of Towhid Hridoy for 13, Tamim continued his aggressive approach, dominating the bowlers with ease.
Opening the innings, Tamim remained unbeaten, smashing 11 fours and three sixes to finish with a strike rate of 179.16. He sealed the victory with his third six, completing the chase with style. His innings, had the target been larger, seemed poised for a potential century.
Veteran wicketkeeper-batter Mushfiqur Rahim provided excellent support in the latter stages, scoring an unbeaten 34 off 27 balls, including four boundaries and one six. Together, Tamim and Mushfiqur forged an unbroken 76-run partnership for the fourth wicket, ensuring a comfortable win for Barishal.
After winning the toss and opting to bat, Rajshahi made a strong start. Openers Mohammad Haris and Jishan Alam put together a brisk 30-run partnership in just 3.4 overs.
Haris was dismissed for 22, but Jishan, who had struggled in the previous two matches, showcased his potential with a solid 38-run knock, including three fours and three sixes.
Following the departure of the openers, Yasir Ali Rabbi and captain Anamul Haque Bijoy took charge, building a 48-run partnership off 35 balls to provide a stable platform.
Yasir contributed 37 runs with two boundaries and three sixes before his dismissal shifted the momentum of the game.
Despite having seven wickets in hand during the last five overs, Rajshahi managed to score only 35 runs. Captain Bijoy top-scored with a measured 39 runs, but his innings failed to accelerate the team’s scoring rate.
Among Barishal’s bowlers, Shaheen Shah Afridi stood out as the most effective, taking two crucial wickets while conceding just 20 runs in his four-over spell.
