BPL 2024: Rangpur Riders Dominates Chattogram Challengers With Standout Performances From Neesham And Shakib

In a commanding performance at the Shere Bangla National Stadium, the Rangpur Riders convincingly defeated the Chattogram Challengers by 53 runs in a Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) clash on Saturday.

Rangpur’s batting display was explosive, fueled by half-centuries from Reeza Hendricks and James Neesham, propelling them to a formidable total of 211/3, marking the first instance of any team surpassing the 200-run mark in the tournament’s history. Neesham made an impactful debut in the BPL with this match.

Chattogram’s chase stumbled early on when Josh Brown was dismissed cheaply by Shakib Al Hasan. Although Shykat Ali managed a half-century, albeit at a slower pace, wickets fell consistently around him.

A late surge from Shuvagata Hom (31*) offered little consolation for Chattogram. Rangpur’s Shakib (2/24) and the exceptional James Neesham (2/32) excelled with the ball, stifling any hopes of a comeback.

Neesham’s all-round brilliance was instrumental, his explosive unbeaten 51 featuring two boundaries and an impressive five sixes, injecting vital momentum into the Riders’ innings. Reeza Hendricks laid a strong foundation with his 58 runs, while Shakib contributed an essential 27.

Salauddin Sakil emerged as Chattogram’s most economical bowler, dismissing Shakib and Hendricks.

Despite Shykat’s resilient innings, Chattogram failed to recover from their early setbacks. Ultimately, the target proved too formidable to overcome, and Rangpur comfortably secured the win.

This victory solidifies Rangpur’s position at the top of the points table, having accumulated 12 points from six victories in eight matches. Meanwhile, Chattogram remains among the top three teams with 10 points from five wins in eight matches.