Dhaka Triumphs Over Rajshahi Despite Tragic Setback

Dhaka Capitals made a winning start to the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), overcoming a heartbreaking situation to thrash Rajshahi Warriors by five wickets at Sylhet International Cricket Stadium today. The team faced immense grief following the sudden loss of their assistant coach Mahbub Ali Zaki, who tragically passed away after falling awkwardly on the field just minutes before the toss.

Despite the emotional setback, Dhaka Capitals rallied together to deliver a professional performance and secure the win. Rajshahi Warriors, who had dominated their opening match against Sylhet, struggled to build momentum in this game. After being asked to bat first, they managed to put up a modest 132-8. Rajshahi's captain Najmul Hossain Shanto, who hammered a century in the previous match to lead the side to the victory, top-scored with a valiant 37 off 28 balls, but the team failed to form any substantial partnerships, which ultimately cost them. Dhaka's bowlers were outstanding, with Pakistan's Imad Wasim leading the charge. Wasim claimed 3-16 in his four overs, while Nasir Hossain supported well, picking up 2-32.

Together, they dismantled Rajshahi's top order and put the chase firmly in Dhaka's favor. Rajshahi's lower order, including Mohammad Nawaz (26), could not recover the innings as Dhaka's bowlers maintained tight control throughout. In the chase, Abdullah Al Mamun played a steady knock, scoring 45 off 39 balls to anchor the innings. However, it was Sabbir Rahman's explosive 21 not out off just 10 balls that sealed the victory for Dhaka, as they raced to the victory with 134-5, comfortably chasing down the target with seven balls to spare.