Mahmudullah anchors again as Rangpur post 155/8 against Dhaka

Bangla Press Desk: Veteran batter Mahmudullah Riyad once again held Rangpur Riders’ innings together with a composed half-century as they posted 155 for 8 against Dhaka Capitals on Sunday at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium.

Put in to bat after losing the toss, Rangpur made a shaky start as openers Litton Das and Kyle Mayers failed to capitalise. Litton departed for 6, while Mayers managed 11 off 11 balls before Dhaka’s bowlers tightened the screws. Towhid Hridoy was then dismissed for a duck by Ziaur Rahman, leaving Rangpur in early trouble.

Mahmudullah steadied the innings alongside Dawid Malan, rebuilding patiently to restore some momentum. Malan contributed a useful 33 before falling, but Mahmudullah continued to anchor the innings with authority. The experienced campaigner scored a vital 51 off 41 deliveries, guiding Rangpur towards a competitive total.

Pakistan all-rounder Khushdil Shah provided the late impetus, smashing a brisk 38 off 21 balls to lift the score beyond the 150 mark and give Rangpur a defendable total.

For Dhaka Capitals, Imad Wasim bowled economically and picked up the wicket of Malan, while Taskin Ahmed and Mohammad Saifuddin claimed one wicket each. Ziaur Rahman was the standout bowler, grabbing two crucial dismissals.

Dhaka Capitals now require 156 runs to defeat Rangpur Riders and secure the two points.

BP/SP