Mahidul Islam Ankon century leads Abahani to 173-run DPL victory

A Resounding Return to Action

The Dhaka Premier League (DPL) resumed its competitive rhythm following the Eid break with a clinical display of cricket by Abahani Limited. In the eighth round of the tournament, the powerhouse outfit secured a massive 173-run win over Gulshan Cricket Club, asserting their dominance in the league standings. At the heart of this comprehensive victory was Mahidul Islam Ankon, whose masterclass with the bat set the tone for the entire encounter.

Dominance at the Crease

Taking place at the BKSP Ground No. 4, the match began with Abahani Limited winning the toss and opting to bat first. The decision proved to be tactically sound as the pitch offered a platform for a high-scoring innings. Abahani finished their allotted 50 overs with a formidable total of 315 runs for the loss of five wickets.

The innings was anchored by the brilliance of Mahidul Islam Ankon. Ankon played with poise and precision, remaining unbeaten on 102 off just 95 deliveries. His ability to rotate the strike while finding boundaries at crucial intervals ensured that the pressure remained firmly on the Gulshan bowlers throughout the middle and death overs.

While Ankon stole the limelight, the team effort was evident through consistent contributions from the supporting cast. Sabbir Hossain provided excellent stability, finishing unbeaten on 45 from 44 balls. The acceleration in the final stages of the innings was aided by Mosaddek Hossain, who scored a rapid 43 off 34 balls, and a late-game cameo from Mahfuzur Rahman Rabby, who smashed an unbeaten 26 off a mere 8 deliveries. For Gulshan Cricket Club, Mosabber Hossain and Zakaria Islam Shanto were the primary wicket-takers, claiming two wickets each, though they struggled to contain the flow of runs.

The Chase Falls Short

Chasing a daunting target of 316, Gulshan Cricket Club required a disciplined start to stay in contention. Initially, it seemed as though they might push Abahani, with openers Rahmat Ali and Alif Hasan Emon putting together an opening partnership of 45 runs. However, the game shifted dramatically when both openers were dismissed in quick succession with the score stuck at 45.

Alif Emon departed after scoring 14 off 12 balls, while Rahmat Ali contributed 30 off 25 deliveries. Their dismissals acted as a catalyst for a significant batting collapse. The middle order failed to navigate the Abahani bowling attack, unable to forge the long partnerships required to chase down such a large total. Despite late resistance from Abdur Rahim, who scored 20, and Abir, who added 15, the tail could not sustain the momentum. Gulshan Cricket Club were eventually bowled out for a mere 142 runs.

A Complete Bowling Performance

Abahani’s bowlers executed their plans with surgical precision. Naimur Rohman spearheaded the attack, dismantling the opposition’s lineup with an impressive three-wicket haul. He was well-supported by Rakibul Hasan and SM Meherob, both of whom claimed two wickets apiece, tightening the screws and preventing any possibility of a recovery. Iqbal Hasan Emon and Mosaddek Hossain also chipped in with a wicket each to cap off a professional performance.

This victory serves as a strong signal of intent from Abahani Limited as the DPL progresses. By securing such a wide margin of victory, they have not only collected vital points but also significantly bolstered their net run rate. For fans of the league, this match was a reminder of the depth and talent currently on display in the Dhaka Premier League, with the century by Ankon standing out as one of the highlights of the season so far.