Taskin Ahmed became the hero of Durbar Rajshahi’s first victory, setting a new record for the best bowling figures by a Bangladeshi in T20 cricket. His incredible 7-wicket haul for just 19 runs shook up the record books. Despite Taskin’s heroics, Dhaka Capitals managed to put up a challenging total. Rajshahi’s chase started shakily, but Anamul Haque and Ryan Burl’s explosive batting ensured a comfortable 7-wicket win with 11 balls to spare.
Taskin’s exceptional bowling made him the first Bangladeshi bowler to take 7 wickets in a T20 match. This feat also broke BPL’s all-time best bowling record, previously held by Mohammad Amir’s 6 for 17.
Taskin’s Early Impact
Bowling with precision, Taskin dismissed Dhaka’s two openers early in the match. Liton Das fell in the second over without scoring, while Tanzid Hasan followed in the next over. Despite the early blows, Shahadat Hossain and Stephen Eskinazi steadied the innings with a 79-run partnership in just 47 balls.
Shahadat and Eskinazi Shine
The duo’s counterattacking partnership saw Dhaka reach 56 runs in the powerplay. Shahadat struck consecutive boundaries off Taskin, while Eskinazi played some brilliant shots, including two sixes off Shafiul Islam. Eskinazi eventually fell for 46 runs off 29 balls, ending the partnership.
Late-Order Fireworks
Thikshila Perera contributed a quick 21 off 9 balls, while Shahadat reached his second T20 fifty before being dismissed by Taskin in the 17th over. Dhaka’s lower order added 32 runs in the final two overs, with Shuvam Ranjan and Alauddin Babu smashing boundaries. Taskin, however, wrapped up the innings by taking two more wickets in the final over, finishing with 7 for 19.
Rajshahi’s Shaky Start
Chasing 175, Rajshahi lost their openers early. Mohammad Haris hit a four and a six in the first over but fell soon after to Mustafizur Rahman. Young opener Zisan Alam departed for a duck in the fourth over.
Anamul and Yasir Fight Back
Anamul Haque and Yasir Ali stabilized the innings with a 42-run stand. Anamul was dropped early on 4, but he made the most of his second chance. Yasir departed for 22 in the 10th over, leaving Rajshahi at 77 for 3.
The Anamul-Burl Show
Anamul and Ryan Burl completely took over the game, putting together a 106-run partnership in just 56 balls. Anamul smashed his second consecutive fifty, finishing unbeaten on 73 off 46 balls, with 9 fours and 3 sixes. Burl’s fireworks included 5 fours and 3 sixes as he scored 55 off 33 balls. The duo made light work of the target, sealing the win in 18.1 overs.
Taskin Steals the Show
Taskin Ahmed’s historic bowling performance earned him the Man of the Match award. His exceptional spell overshadowed all other performances, making him the star of the match.
Match Summary:
- Dhaka Capitals: 174/9 (20 overs)
Shahadat 50, Eskinazi 46, Taskin 7-19 - Durbar Rajshahi: 179/3 (18.1 overs)
Anamul 73*, Burl 55*, Mustafizur 1-33
Result: Durbar Rajshahi won by 7 wickets
Man of the Match: Taskin Ahmed
