Guyana Stun Rangpur, Lift GSL Trophy
Rangpur Riders failed to defend the Global Super League (GSL) title after tasting a 32-run defeat to Guyana Amazon Warriors in the final of the tournament yesterday night at Providence Stadium in Guyana. The BPL franchise Rangpur came to the final as the only unbeaten side, having won three matches while their other match was washed out due to rain but were undone by a spirited home side at the end. Guyana, however, won three matches but lost their only game to Rangpur in the group phase. It mattered little as they took the sweet revenge at the end. This year's GSL welcomed five powerhouse franchises from across the cricketing world. Apart from Rangpur and Guyana which is the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) champions, the other teams were Dubai Capitals (UAE ILT20 Champions), Central Stags (New Zealand-Super Smash Champions), Hobart Hurricanes (Australia-Big Bash Champions).
Last year's tournament, staged at the Providence Stadium in Guyana, witnessed the Rangpur Riders' triumph over Australia's Cricket Victoria in a thrilling final, cementing their place in GSL history. But this year, Rangpur saw the other side of the coin.Electing to bat first, Guyana compiled a hefty 196-4 with opener Johnson Charles hammering 67 off 48 with 11 fours and one six. Rahmanullah Gurbaz blasted 38 ball-66, smashing six fours and four sixes while Romario Shepherd gave the finishing touch in emphatic fashion with nine ball-28 not out. In reply, Rangpur were bowled out for 164 in 19.4 overs. Pakistan recruit Iftikhar Ahmaed made team-best 46 off 29 while Mahidul Islam Ankon scored 17 ball-30. Dawine Pretorious claimed 3-37 for Guyana to wreak havoc on Rangpur innings.
