BPL 2025: Barishal's Dominance Continues as They Beat Khulna Tigers by 5 Wickets

In the race for the top two positions in the BPL points table, the current champions, Fortune Barishal, are in a favorable position. Khulna Tigers’ chances of reaching the playoffs have significantly diminished following their 5-wicket defeat to Barishal.

With this victory, Barishal has secured 16 points and remains comfortably in the top two. Only the Rungpur Riders, with the same 16 points from 10 matches, are above Barishal. On the other hand, Khulna Tigers, with their sixth loss in 10 matches, remain in 5th place.

Chasing a challenging target of 188, Barishal lost their first wicket in the second over when Tahehidh Hridoy was dismissed. However, the bowlers of Khulna failed to create any further opportunities, as Tamim Iqbal and David Malan took charge. After Hridoy’s departure for 11 runs off 7 balls, Tamim and Malan formed a solid partnership.

Malan displayed aggressive strokeplay, bringing up his fifty off just 29 balls, marking his second fifty in the current BPL season. Tamim was dismissed for 27 runs when Afif Hossain took a stunning catch. Malan, who had already become more dangerous after reaching fifty, was dismissed by Afif for 63 runs off 37 balls, including 8 fours and 3 sixes.

Mushfiqur Rahim and Mahmudullah both contributed 24 runs each before being dismissed. Fahim Ashraf and Mohammad Nabi then guided the team to victory. Barishal completed the chase with 5 wickets remaining, winning with 5 balls to spare.