Sylhet Strikers secured their second win of the season with a thrilling 8-run victory over Khulna Tigers in a closely contested BPL match.
After losing the toss, Sylhet posted a competitive total of 182 for 5 in their 20 overs at Sylhet International Stadium. Khulna, in pursuit of the target, fell short, finishing at 174 for 9.
Khulna's chase faltered early with the dismissals of Mohammad Naim and Imrul Kayes. Naim made 11 off 9 balls, while Kayes was dismissed for just 2 runs. Afghan batsman Darwish Rasooli contributed 15 runs before being caught off a Reece Topley delivery. The loss of captain Mehedi Hasan Miraz for 15 runs off 14 balls further compounded Khulna’s struggles.
However, Mohammad Nawaz fought back with a quick-fire 33 off 18 balls, while Mahidul Islam Ankon also tried to steer the chase. With 19 runs needed off the final 6 balls, Khulna’s hopes were dashed when Mahidul was run out for 28 off 16 balls, and the Tigers' innings ended at 174, handing Sylhet the victory by 8 runs.
Earlier, Sylhet’s innings got off to a shaky start, losing 2 wickets for just 15 runs. Opener Rony Talukdar steadied the ship, forming a crucial 106-run partnership with Zakir Hossain, who came in at No. 3. Talukder made 56 runs, hitting 5 fours and 2 sixes, before he was dismissed. Aaron Jones provided a quick cameo with 20 runs from 6 balls, including 3 sixes.
Zakir Hossain played a dominant knock, finishing with 75 runs off 46 balls, leading Sylhet to a total of 182 for 5. Ariful Islam remained unbeaten on 21 runs from 13 balls, adding vital runs in the latter stages.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
