Mohammedan’s dramatic victory sets up ‘Unofficial Final’ against Abahani
Agency :
Abahani had already done their part earlier in the day, securing a comfortable seven-wicket win over Legends of Rupganj at BKSP. With that victory, Mosaddek Hossain’s side was eagerly awaiting the outcome of the Mohammedan vs. Gazi Group match in Mirpur. A defeat for Mohammedan would have handed Abahani the title today itself.
However, a dramatic last-ball victory for Mohammedan means the title race will now be decided in an unofficial final between Abahani and Mohammedan in the last round of the Super League.
Mohammedan had no option but to win to stay in the championship hunt. In a tense final over against Gazi Group, Mohammedan needed 12 runs with Parvez Hossain Emon bowling.
Saifuddin and Nasum Ahmed were at the crease. Only 5 runs came from the first four balls, but under intense pressure, Nasum smashed a huge six on the fifth delivery, swinging the momentum back to Mohammedan. They then secured the remaining run on the final ball to clinch a thrilling win.
In Mirpur, Mohammedan had been set a relatively manageable target. Batting first after losing the toss, Gazi Group Cricketers were bowled out for 236 runs in 49.4 overs, with opener Munim Shahriar scoring a team-high 80 runs.
For Mohammedan, Saifuddin and Mustafizur Rahman each picked up three wickets.
Mohammedan’s chase, however, got off to a shaky start with opener Anisul Islam falling in the second over. But a 75-run partnership between Rony Talukdar and Towhid Hridoy steadied the innings.
After Rony’s dismissal at 115, Hridoy and Mahmudullah Riyad tried to rebuild, but both fell short of fifties-Hridoy scoring 37 and Mahmudullah 49-making the match finely balanced once again.
It was Saifuddin (30*) and Nasum Ahmed (21*) who ultimately steered Mohammedan to victory, keeping their title hopes alive.
With this win, the final Super League match between Abahani and Mohammedan has effectively become an unofficial final. The winner will lift the trophy.
If Mohammedan win, both teams will be tied on points, but Mohammedan will claim the title based on their head-to-head record. If the match is washed out, Abahani will be crowned champions.