Rajshahi’s all-local XI secures thrilling two-run victory over Rangpur

Durbar Rajshahi stunned Rangpur Riders by two runs in a nail-biting clash at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium on 26 January, achieving the feat with an XI comprised entirely of local players.

The celebration that followed captured the significance of the victory. Players formed a circle, lifted captain Taskin Ahmed on their shoulders, and celebrated again by the boundary, showcasing the emotional weight of their achievement.

The match was far from straightforward for Rajshahi. On game day, the players had to shift from one hotel to another due to logistical issues.

A bigger setback loomed as the overseas players refused to take the field over unpaid salaries. Even the participation of local players was uncertain until last-minute cheques were issued, allowing the team to field a domestic XI.

This led to a significant challenge for Rajshahi, as BPL regulations mandate teams to field a minimum of two and a maximum of four foreign players. Despite the complications, they were granted special permission by the BCB to proceed with the match.

Their batting performance, however, suggested trouble ahead, as they managed only 119 for 9 after being sent in to bat. None of their batters crossed the 30-run mark, with several struggling to reach 20. At the halfway stage, Rangpur seemed poised for a comfortable win. But Rajshahi's bowlers, particularly Mrittunjoy Chowdhury, turned the game on its head, reducing Rangpur to 49 for 7 and putting the victory within reach.

In a dramatic finish, Mohammad Saifuddin kept Rangpur in the hunt with an unbeaten 31-ball 52, hitting six fours and three sixes. Partnered by Rakibul Hasan, who added 20 off 22 balls, Saifuddin brought Rangpur close with a 42-run stand for the eighth wicket. However, their chase ended on 117 for 8, leaving Rajshahi victorious by the narrowest of margins.

Taskin Ahmed's brilliant season continued as he claimed two wickets for 25 runs in four overs, setting a new record for most wickets in a single BPL season. His tally of 24 wickets in 11 matches surpassed Shakib Al Hasan's record of 23 wickets. Mrittunjoy Chowdhury, named Player of the Match, was sensational with figures of 4 for 18 in his four overs, while Mohor Sheikh impressed with 2 for 15.

Rajshahi's batting effort was led by Sanjamul Islam, who top-scored with 28 off 29 balls, including four boundaries. Contributions from Akbar Ali (19), Taskin Ahmed (13), and Sabbir Hossain (11) provided some stability, but their total remained modest. Rangpur's Khushdil Shah was the pick of the bowlers, taking 3 for 19, while Saifuddin and Rakibul Hasan shared four wickets between them.

Rangpur's response began disastrously, with Mrittunjoy's fiery opening spell reducing them to 30 for 6. Five of their top six batters failed to reach double digits. Despite Saifuddin's valiant effort, it was not enough to prevent a second defeat to Rajshahi this season.

The victory moves Rajshahi to 10 points with five wins from 11 matches, keeping them in fourth place and firmly in the playoff race. Rangpur, who had already secured their playoff spot, remain at the top of the table with 16 points from 10 matches.