Skipper Tamim Iqbal’s explosive half-century guided Fortune Barishal to a thrilling three-wicket victory over Chittagong Kings, securing their second consecutive Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) title at the Shere Bangla National Stadium on Friday.
Chittagong Kings Set a Formidable Target
Put into bat first, the Kings posted a commanding 194/3, courtesy of blazing half-centuries from Khawaja Nafay and Parvez Hossain Emon.
The opening duo laid a solid foundation with a 121-run stand before Nafay fell in the 13th over after scoring a 44-ball 66, featuring seven fours and three sixes.
Emon anchored the innings and remained unbeaten on 78 off 49 deliveries, smashing six fours and four sixes. He was well-supported by Graham Clark, who contributed a quickfire 44 off 23 before being run out in the final over.
For Barishal, Ebadot Hossain and Mohammad Ali managed one wicket each.
Tamim, Mayers Steer Barishal to Title Defense
Chasing 195, Barishal got off to a strong start as Tamim Iqbal led from the front with a 29-ball 54, hitting nine boundaries and a six. He shared a crucial 76-run partnership with Towhid Hridoy (32 off 28) to set the platform.
Kyle Mayers then took charge with a blistering 46 off 28 balls, featuring three fours and three sixes, before a lower-order scare added late drama to the chase.
However, Rishad Hossain’s unbeaten 18 off just six balls, including two sixes, ensured Barishal crossed the finish line with three balls to spare.
Shoriful Islam was the pick of the bowlers for the Kings, taking 4/34, while Naeem Islam chipped in with two wickets.
Key Performers and Awards
- Player of the Match: Tamim Iqbal (54 off 29)
- Player of the Tournament: Mehidy Hasan Miraz (335 runs, 13 wickets)
With this win, Fortune Barishal successfully defended their BPL title, capping off another dominant season under Tamim’s leadership.
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