Zakir's brilliance propels Sylhet to 182-5 against Khulna

 

Emerging batter Zakir Hasan dazzled with an unbeaten 75 off 46 balls, propelling Sylhet Strikers to a competitive 182-5 against Khulna Tigers in their bid for a second victory in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) at Sylhet International Cricket Stadium today.

 

Opener Rony Talukdar also made a significant impact, scoring a 56 off 44 balls that included five fours and two sixes.

After being asked to bat first, Sylhet found themselves in trouble early, losing two wickets for just 15 runs in 4.2 overs. However, Zakir and Rony steadied the innings with a crucial 106-run stand for the third wicket, laying the groundwork for a formidable total.

Khulna’s Abu Haider Rony, who claimed two wickets for 25 runs, broke the partnership by dismissing his namesake Rony Talukdar. Yet, Zakir continued his explosive form, smashing three fours and six sixes to register his highest score in T20 cricket.

Late contributions from Aaron Jones (20 off 6 balls) and captain Ariful Haque (21 not out off 13 balls) ensured a strong finish for Sylhet.

Sylhet Strikers bounced back from a three-match losing streak with a victory over Dhaka Capitals in their previous game, while Khulna Tigers, after winning their first two matches, suffered a setback in their third.