Hasan Mahmud’s Bowling Heroics Steal the Show from Enamul’s Century
Enamul Haque tasted his first BPL century, but Hasan Mahmud’s brilliant final-over bowling secured a thrilling victory for the Khulna Tigers.
Enamul reached his century by playing Hasan’s full-length delivery to the on-side for a single. He removed his helmet at the other end, but there was no celebration—no raised bat, no smile. Why would there be? His team still needed 9 runs from that ball to win.
Despite Enamul’s magnificent unbeaten century, scoring 100 off 57 balls with 9 fours and 5 sixes, it wasn’t enough to secure a win for his side, Durbar Rajshahi. Hasan Mahmud’s excellent death bowling, including 2 wickets for 25 runs in 4 overs, clinched a 7-run victory for Khulna Tigers in a high-scoring game where both teams crossed 200 runs.
The final-over drama saw Rajshahi needing 17 runs to win. Enamul hit the first ball for a boundary but couldn’t find further gaps as Hasan bowled with precision. Enamul survived a dropped catch at the boundary on the fourth ball but could only complete his personal milestone, falling short of taking his team over the line.
Enamul’s strike rate in the last three overs also raises some questions. With 36 runs needed off the final 18 balls, he managed just 18 runs from 12 deliveries, leaving too much to do in the final moments.
Khulna Bounces Back After Losing Streak
Khulna Tigers, who had lost four matches in a row, made three changes to their lineup. Rubel Hossain returned to competitive cricket after nine months, while Alex Ross and William Bosisto were also included in the playing XI.
After a blazing start by Mohammad Naim and Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Khulna posted a massive 209/4, thanks to fifties from Afif Hossain (56 off 42 balls) and William Bosisto (55* off 37 balls). A late cameo by Mahidul Islam (30* off 12 balls) pushed their total past 200.
In reply, Rajshahi’s chase was led by Enamul and supported by Yasir Ali Chowdhury (20 off 17 balls) and Ryan Burl (25 off 20 balls). However, Hasan Mahmud’s tight bowling, particularly in the final over, proved decisive.
Highlights:
- Hasan Mahmud (Man of the Match): 4 overs, 25 runs, 2 wickets
- Enamul Haque: 100* off 57 balls
- Afif Hossain: 56 off 42 balls
- William Bosisto: 55* off 37 balls
- Mahidul Islam: 30* off 12 balls
Match Summary:
- Khulna Tigers: 209/4 in 20 overs (Afif 56, Bosisto 55*, Mahidul 30*)
- Durbar Rajshahi: 202/4 in 20 overs (Enamul 100*, Burl 25, Yasir 20)
Result: Khulna Tigers won by 7 runs
Man of the Match: Hasan Mahmud
With this victory, Khulna Tigers achieved their third win in eight matches, while Rajshahi suffered their fifth loss of the tournament.
