Mahidul Islam Ankon century leads Abahani to 173-run DPL victory
A Commanding Return to the DPL
The Dhaka Premier League (DPL) resumed its competitive schedule after the mandatory Eid break, and Abahani Limited wasted no time in re-establishing their authority on the pitch. In a comprehensive display of skill and tactical discipline, Abahani secured a massive 173-run victory against Gulshan Cricket Club during the eighth round of the tournament. The center-piece of this emphatic win was undoubtedly the elegant batting display by Mahidul Islam Ankon, whose century anchored the innings.
Dominance at the BKSP Ground
The match, hosted at the BKSP Ground No. 4, began with Abahani winning the toss and electing to bat first. The decision proved to be a masterstroke, as the track provided ideal conditions for their top-order to establish a firm foundation. The team eventually posted a formidable total of 315 for 5 in their allotted 50 overs, setting a steep mountain for the Gulshan Cricket Club to climb.
Mahidul Islam Ankon was the undisputed star of the afternoon. He paced his innings to perfection, remaining unbeaten on 102 runs from just 95 deliveries. His knock was characterized by crisp timing and an astute ability to find gaps in the field. While no other batter managed to notch a half-century, the support cast was equally vital in ensuring the scoreboard kept ticking. Sabbir Hossain provided stability with an unbeaten 45 from 44 balls, while Mosaddek Hossain injected urgency into the middle phase with 43 runs off 34 balls. The late-innings surge was spearheaded by Mahfuzur Rahman Rabby, who hammered an unbeaten 26 off a mere 8 deliveries, pushing Abahani well past the 300-run mark.
On the bowling front for Gulshan Cricket Club, Mosabber Hossain and Zakaria Islam Shanto were the most effective, picking up two wickets apiece, though they were unable to stifle the flow of runs consistently.
A Rapid Collapse for the Chasing Side
Chasing a challenging target of 316, Gulshan Cricket Club needed a steady start, and for a fleeting moment, it seemed possible. Openers Rahmat Ali and Alif Hasan Emon put together a 45-run stand. However, the game turned on its head in a single flurry of wickets, as both openers were dismissed with the total still sitting at 45. Alif Emon departed after scoring 14 from 12 balls, while Rahmat Ali fell for 30 from 25 deliveries.
The momentum shift was immediate and irreversible. The Gulshan middle order failed to build any meaningful partnerships, finding themselves unable to negotiate the pressure applied by the Abahani bowling unit. Abdur Rahim managed to reach 20 runs from 21 balls, and Abir chipped in with 15 from 25, but these were merely minor delays in an inevitable defeat. The innings ultimately crumbled, and Gulshan was bowled out for a meager 142 runs.
Abahani’s Tactical Brilliance
The bowling performance from Abahani was clinical, with Naimur Rohman spearheading the attack by taking three crucial wickets. He was ably supported by Rakibul Hasan and SM Meherob, both of whom claimed two wickets each. The pressure was maintained from both ends, with Iqbal Hasan Emon and Mosaddek Hossain also contributing with one wicket each to clean up the tail.
This 173-run victory is a significant boost for Abahani Limited as they continue their campaign in the DPL. By combining a powerhouse batting display with a disciplined bowling performance, they have sent a clear signal to their rivals that they remain one of the teams to beat this season. For the spectators, the day served as a reminder of the quality cricket on display in the DPL, with Ankon’s century standing out as the highlight of the round.
