Cricket Highlights, January 23: Bangladesh Premier League 2024/25 (31st Match) – RAJ vs RAR

RAJ vs RAR (31st Match) – Highlights

In this article, we will discuss the thrilling RAJ vs RAR in 31st match of the Bangladesh Premier League 2025, held in Chattogram on January 23. RAJ faced off against the RAR in a high-stakes encounter. Rajshahi showcased a dominant performance, posting a competitive total of 170/9 in their allotted 20 overs. In response, Rangpur Riders struggled to maintain the required run rate and were bowled out for 146 in 19.2 overs. Rajshahi secured a convincing 24-run victory, leaving fans in awe of their all-round brilliance.

Batting first, Durbar Rajshahi posted a challenging total of 170/9 in their 20 overs. The innings began with a brisk knock by Mohammad Haris, who struck a quick 19 off 12 balls, including four boundaries, before being dismissed by Rakibul Hasan. Sabbir Hossain then took center stage with a blistering 39 off just 19 balls, hammering four fours and three sixes at an incredible strike rate of 205.26, setting the tone for Rajshahi’s innings.

Anamul Haque anchored the middle overs with a composed 34 off 31 balls, though his strike rate of 109.67 slowed the momentum slightly. Yasir Ali, however, ensured the innings finished on a high note with a scintillating 60 off 32 balls, smashing two fours and six sixes. His explosive knock came at a strike rate of 187.50 and was instrumental in pushing Rajshahi to a competitive total.

Contributions from the lower order were minimal, as Rangpur’s bowlers, led by Khushdil Shah (3/31) and Akif Javed (3/23), restricted the opposition effectively in the final overs. Despite losing wickets at regular intervals, Rajshahi managed to maintain a healthy run rate of 8.50.

In reply, the RAR struggled from the very beginning, losing early wickets and failing to build momentum. Taskin Ahmed struck in the first over, removing Irfan Sukkur for a duck, while SM Meherob dismissed Steven Taylor cheaply for 4.

Rangpur’s top order collapsed further as Iftikhar Ahmed departed for a golden duck, leaving them reeling at 15/3 within four overs. Saif Hassan tried to stabilize the innings with a fighting 43 off 29 balls, including five boundaries and two sixes, but his dismissal in the 10th over left Rangpur in deep trouble.

Nurul Hasan (41 off 26) and Mohammad Saifuddin (23 off 14) showed some resilience, adding crucial runs in the middle and lower order. Nurul’s aggressive knock, featuring four fours and two sixes, kept Rangpur’s hopes alive briefly.

However, the rest of the batting lineup failed to support him, as Ryan Burl wreaked havoc with his leg spin, claiming 4/22 in his four overs. Taskin Ahmed and SM Meherob chipped in with two wickets each, ensuring Rangpur were bowled out for 146 in 19.2 overs, falling 24 runs short of the target.

RAJ disciplined bowling, combined with sharp fielding and Yasir Ali’s batting heroics, secured a well-deserved victory. The match highlighted Rajshahi’s all-round capabilities and underlined their strong contention in the tournament.

Durbar Rajshahi vs Rangpur Riders Scoreboard

Durbar Rajshahi– 170/9

Rangpur Riders– 146(19.2/20)

Result – Rajshahi won by 24 runs

Player of the Match – Ryan Burl

RAJ vs RAR Playing XI

Durbar Rajshahi

Mohammad Haris, Sabbir Hossain, Anamul Haque, Ryan Burl, Yasir Ali, Akbar Ali(WK), SM Meherob, Sunzamul Islam, Taskin Ahmed(C), Shafiul Islam, Mohor Sheikh.

Rangpur Riders

Steven Taylor, Irfan Sukkur, Saif Hassan, Iftikhar Ahmed, Khushdil Shah, Nurul Hasan(C)(WK), Mahedi Hasan, Mohammad Saifuddin, Akif Javed, Rakibul Hasan, Nahid Rana.

Disclaimer: These match highlights reflect the author’s insights and analysis. Readers are encouraged to consider the points discussed and form their own conclusions.

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