Match Summary
Fortune Barishal (CV) pulled off a narrow win against Sylhet Strikers (SYS) in the 37th game of the Bangladesh Premier League 2024, showcasing grit, nerves of steel, and some stand-out individual brilliance. With the playoffs just around the corner, this result adds serious heat to the qualification race.
Quick Scorecard
| Team | Score | Overs |
| Fortune Barishal (CV) | 159/6 | 20 overs |
| Sylhet Strikers (SYS) | 156/8 | 20 overs |
| Result | CV won by 3 runs | |
| Player of the Match | Mahmudullah (CV) – 41 (26) & 1/18 |
First Innings: Mahmudullah Anchors Barishal’s Push
Opting to bat first, Fortune Barishal got off to a rocky start, losing both openers inside the Powerplay. But then came the seasoned pro — Mahmudullah, who stitched together a composed knock of 41 off 26 balls, bringing some much-needed momentum into the innings. He received solid support from Ibrahim Zadran (34 off 28), while Mehidy Hasan Miraz added a crucial 20* at the death to push the score to a competitive 159.
SYS bowlers, particularly Tanzim Hasan Sakib (2/27) and Richard Ngarava (1/24), did well to restrict the flow during the middle overs, but Mahmudullah’s calculated hitting proved vital in the end.
Second Innings: Sylhet Falter at the Finish
The chase looked well under control at one stage, thanks to a steady knock from Najmul Hossain Shanto, who scored 48 (35) with four boundaries and two sixes. But once he fell to Obed McCoy in the 15th over, the match turned on its head.
The last five overs saw Sylhet crumble under pressure. Requiring 26 off the last three overs with five wickets in hand, they only managed 22, thanks to some tight death bowling by Mohammad Wasim Jr. and Khaled Ahmed. The final over saw 6 runs needed off 2 balls, but a crucial dot ball followed by a run-out sealed the fate of Sylhet Strikers.
Turning Point
The 18th over bowled by Mahmudullah changed the tone — he gave away just 5 runs and picked up a wicket. That squeeze made the difference in a match that went down to the final ball.
What This Means for the Points Table
With this win, Fortune Barishal move to 3rd place, nudging ahead of Sylhet and keeping their playoff hopes alive. For Sylhet Strikers, it’s a tough pill to swallow — their inconsistency continues to haunt them.
Player to Watch
Mahmudullah proved once again why experience matters. With both bat and ball, he delivered at key moments — his contribution easily justifying the Player of the Match award.
What’s Next?
With just a few games remaining in the league stage, the intensity is at its peak. CV will face Comilla Victorians next — a side known for their all-round strength. And speaking of epic clashes, don’t miss the Rajasthan Royals vs Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2025 — a face-off that promises fireworks!
Final Thoughts
Tense finishes, last-ball drama, and veteran performances — this match had it all. Barishal held their nerve in a game where every run counted. If BPL 2024 continues like this, we’re in for a spicy finish to the league stages.
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