Mosaddek and Sabbir Lead Abahani to Hard-Fought DPL Victory over Bashundhara
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Abahani Limited Triumphs in Mirpur Thriller Against Bashundhara Strikers
The Dhaka Premier League (DPL) continues to deliver high-octane cricket, and the recent clash between Abahani Limited and Bashundhara Strikers at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium was no exception. In a match that swung back and forth, Abahani Limited eventually emerged victorious by 4 wickets, thanks to a balanced display of clinical bowling and middle-order batting resilience. The victory was particularly significant given the early pressure both teams faced during their respective innings.
Bashundhara Strikers Falter Early Despite Resilient Middle Order
The contest began with Bashundhara Strikers winning the toss and electing to bat first. However, the decision seemed to backfire almost immediately as the Abahani bowlers found significant movement and discipline early on. The Strikers’ top order was decimated within the first powerplay. Key batsmen including Saif Hassan, Imran Uzzaman, and Fazle Mahmud were dismissed cheaply, failing to withstand the pressure. Even the experienced captain, Nurul Hasan Sohan, could not steady the ship, leaving the team in a precarious position.
With the scoreboard looking grim, the responsibility fell on the shoulders of Aminul Islam Biplob and Nahidul Islam. The duo produced a masterclass in rebuilding an innings under duress. Together, they stitched a magnificent 133-run partnership that breathed life back into the Bashundhara dugout. Nahidul Islam played the role of the anchor, scoring a patient 63 off 95 deliveries, while Biplob was the primary aggressor, top-scoring with a brilliant 81 runs from 117 balls. Their efforts allowed Bashundhara Strikers to reach a respectable total of 209 for 9 in their allotted 50 overs.
Borson Shines with the Ball for Abahani
While the Strikers’ middle order fought back, the standout performer with the ball for Abahani Limited was Rohanat Doullah Borson. His ability to pick up wickets at crucial intervals prevented the Strikers from reaching a more daunting total. Borson finished his spell with impressive figures, claiming four wickets and ensuring that Abahani would have a manageable target to chase despite the fightback from the opposition tail and middle order.
Abahani’s Shaky Start and Captain’s Recovery
The chase of 210 runs began in disastrous fashion for Abahani Limited. The top order, which usually provides a solid foundation, crumbled under the new-ball pressure from the Strikers’ bowlers. Openers Soumya Sarkar and Jishan Alam were sent back to the pavilion for low scores, and when Mahidul Islam Ankon was dismissed for 19, followed by the failure of SM Meherob, Abahani found themselves reeling at 44 for 4.
At this critical juncture, captain Mosaddek Hossain took center stage. Understanding the gravity of the situation, Mosaddek opted for a counter-attacking approach to shift the momentum. He found a reliable partner in Jaker Ali Anik. The pair stabilized the innings with a vital partnership that frustrated the Bashundhara bowlers. Jaker Ali played a supporting role, contributing a vital 43 runs from 62 balls before his dismissal.
Mosaddek and Sabbir Seal the Deal
Mosaddek Hossain’s innings was the turning point of the match. He struck a rapid 57 off 54 balls, a knock decorated with 3 boundaries and 5 towering sixes. His aggression forced the opposition to change their fields and took the pressure off the lower order. After Mosaddek’s departure, the veteran Sabbir Rahman ensured there were no further hiccups. Sabbir showcased his experience by playing a composed yet authoritative innings, remaining unbeaten on 50 from 54 balls, including 4 boundaries and 2 sixes.
Supporting Sabbir at the end was Mahfuzur Rahman Rabbi, who remained not out on 22. The duo safely guided Abahani Limited past the target, completing the 4-wicket win with overs to spare. This victory highlights Abahani’s depth and their ability to win from difficult situations, while Bashundhara Strikers will look back at their early batting collapse as the decisive factor in their defeat.
