Dhaka end BPL league phase with win as Chattogram secure qualifier spot

Dhaka Capitals wrapped up the league phase of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) with a commanding 42-run victory over Chattogram Royals at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur on Sunday.

Dhaka’s total of 170 all out proved more than enough despite Chattogram securing second place in the standings. Chasing the target, Chattogram needed at least 77 runs to avoid slipping to third, and Aamer Jamal’s late 42 off 26 balls ensured they did just enough to finish runners-up. Rangpur Riders and Sylhet Titans claimed third and fourth positions respectively, setting up an Eliminator clash between the two on Tuesday afternoon. Chattogram will face table-toppers Rajshahi Warriors in the first qualifier later the same evening at the same venue.

Dhaka, meanwhile, had already crashed out from the playoffs race earlier in the tournament. The win marked their third victory in 10 matches. 

Sent in to bat, Dhaka found early stability through opener Saif Hassan, who finally returned to form with a fluent 73 off 44 balls. After Usman Khan departed early for 16, Saif combined with Zubaid Akbari to add a crucial 90-run partnership off 61 deliveries.

Chattogram fought back through spinner Tanvir Islam and pacer Shoriful Islam, who tightened the screws in the middle overs by picking up three and two wickets respectively. Their efforts helped bowl Dhaka out for 170.

In reply, Chattogram’s chase was rocked early by Taskin Ahmed, who struck with the new ball, before Naim Sheikh was run out for 18 to leave his side in trouble at 44 for four. Taskin then removed Chattogram captain Mahedi Hasan for three, while Mohammad Saifuddin further derailed the innings by dismissing Asif Ali (12) and Tanvir (1).

Late resistance came from Shoriful Islam, who struck a brisk 14 off six balls, and Aamer Jamal, whose aggressive 42 helped Chattogram reach 128 all out in 19.4 overs. Saifuddin finished as the pick of the bowlers with four for 20, while Taskin returned figures of three for 28 from his four overs.