Rangpur Riders’ struggles continued as they suffered their fourth straight defeat, falling to Khulna Tigers by 46 runs in their final group-stage match at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium on Thursday.
They remain second in the table with 16 points from 12 matches but head into the play-offs in poor form.
Facing Khulna on Thursday, Rangpur were set a daunting 221-run target after their opponents opted to bat first.
Naim Sheikh led Khulna’s charge with a magnificent unbeaten 111 off 62 balls, his maiden BPL century. His innings featured seven fours and eight sixes.
He was well supported by Mehidy Hasan (21), Willaim Bessisto (36), and Mahidul Islam Ankon (29), as Khulna posted their highest-ever BPL total—220/4.
Rangpur’s response never gained momentum.
Soumya Sarkar fought hard with a 48-ball 74, including six fours and five sixes, but lacked support from his teammates.
Rangpur managed only 174/9 in 20 overs.
Khulna’s bowlers delivered under pressure. Musfik Hasan starred with 3 for 24, while Mohammad Nawaz took two wickets.
Nasum Ahmed and Hasan Mahmud chipped in with one each, ensuring Rangpur ended their group stage on a losing streak.
Source: The Daily Sun
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