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Dasun Shanaka's explosive batting and Shakib Al Hasan's bowling heroics were not enough for Bangla Tigers to secure a victory, as they suffered a six-wicket defeat to Morrisville Samp Army in their opening match of the Abu Dhabi T10 at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium.

Batting first, Bangla Tigers posted a competitive total of 106 runs in 10 overs, thanks to Shanaka’s blistering unbeaten 62 off 27 balls, including four sixes and four boundaries.

Hazratullah Zazai contributed a steady 35 off 26 balls. Shanaka’s late fireworks, which included smashing 31 runs in the final over bowled by Rohan Mustafa, ensured a respectable total for the Tigers.

In reply, Samp Army overcame an early setback when opener Sharjeel Khan departed for a duck in the first over. However, captain Faf du Plessis kept the chase on track with a brisk 29 off 14 balls before falling to Shakib Al Hasan, who bowled brilliantly, taking 2 wickets for 15 runs in his two overs.

Shakib also dismissed Rohan Mustafa with a clever wide delivery that led to a stumping, showcasing his sharp cricketing acumen. Despite his efforts and a run-out involving Shakib, Samp Army secured victory with one over to spare, courtesy of contributions from Karim Janat (15*) and Jack Taylor (27*).