Chattogram Royals began their Bangladesh Premier League campaign with a commanding 64-run win over Noakhali Express on Friday, brushing aside a week of off-field uncertainty to dominate the newcomers at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium.
Chattogram’s build-up to the tournament was disrupted after the franchise owner withdrew a day before the start, leaving the team without sponsors and forcing the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) to take administrative control. Several foreign players pulled out at short notice, leaving the side with only Mirza Baig and Masood Gurbaz as overseas recruits.
Despite the disruption, Chattogram posted 170 for 6 and then bowled out Noakhali for 109 in 17.4 overs.
Pakistani opener Mirza Baig anchored the innings with 80 off 69 balls, striking seven fours and two sixes, while captain Sheikh Mahedi Hasan added a quick 26 off 13 deliveries.
Noakhali’s chase began brightly with Habibur Rahman Sohan hitting 15 off seven balls before Shoriful Islam had him caught by Gurbaz. None of the Noakhali batters were able to build a substantial innings against disciplined bowling led by Tanvir Islam and Mahedi Hasan.
Tanvir finished with three wickets for 39 runs, while Shoriful Islam, Mukidul Islam took two each as Chattogram completed a comfortable victory.
Bd-pratidin English/TR
