File photo – Afif Hossain became the second bowler this season to take a hat-trick in the Dhaka Premier League © BCB
After defeating Sheikh Jamal Dhanmondi Club by six wickets, Abahani Limited have done their bit to stay in contention on a rain-marred day at the Dhaka Premier League’s Super League stage. They have now moved to 24 points, equal with Gazi Group Cricketers whose final game against Prime Doleshwar Sporting Club – who are just two points behind both teams – will continue tomorrow.
Abahani had to fight back from a strong start made by Dhanmondi Club after they moved to 95 for 1 in the 14th over. But offspinner Afif Hossain struck with a hat-trick in the same over, removing Abdullah Al Mamun, Sohag Gazi and Ziaur Rahman. He became the second bowler this season to take a hat-trick, after Victoria Sporting Club’s Monir Hossain achieved the feat against Brothers Union.
Mahbubul Karim, who witnessed the hat-trick from the other end, made 60 off 59 balls with four sixes and as many fours. Dhanmondi Club’s innings was interrupted on 162-7 in 30.4 overs, following which Abahani’s target was set at 124 runs off 20 overs.
Saif Hassan blasted a 40-ball 51 with five fours and two sixes, adding 58 for the second wicket with Shadman Islam. Later, Mohammad Mithun’s unbeaten 22-ball 29 completed the chase with 16 balls to spare.
The game between Mohammedan Sporting and Prime Bank, too, will continue tomorrow after play was paused after 43.3 overs.
Mohammad Isam is ESPNcricinfo’s Bangladesh correspondent. @isam84
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Source: ESPN Crickinfo