Rangpur Riders produced a disciplined all-round performance to defeat Fortune Barishal by 17 runs in the Bangladesh Premier League, successfully defending a competitive total of 181 in a match that showcased pressure bowling and smart game management. The win reinforced Rangpur’s growing confidence in tight contests and underlined their ability to close out games even when the opposition threatens late.
Batting first, Rangpur Riders approached their innings with clear intent. The top order laid a solid foundation, ensuring momentum through the powerplay without reckless shot-making. Rather than relying on one explosive cameo, Rangpur built their total through partnerships, steady strike rotation, and timely boundary-hitting. The pitch offered decent carry and value for shots, but it also demanded respect, which Rangpur’s batters showed.
The middle overs were crucial in pushing the score beyond par. Rangpur’s batters targeted specific bowlers, picked their match-ups wisely, and avoided a mid-innings slowdown. Boundaries came at regular intervals, preventing Fortune Barishal from building sustained pressure. By the time the death overs arrived, Rangpur were well placed to launch.
The final phase of the innings added vital runs. Clean hitting combined with intelligent running between the wickets ensured Rangpur crossed the 180 mark — a total that felt just above par but still required disciplined bowling to defend. Fortune Barishal’s bowlers pulled things back slightly at the death, but the damage had already been done.
Chasing 182, Fortune Barishal began positively, knowing the target was achievable with a strong powerplay. Their openers showed intent, finding boundaries early and keeping the required rate under control. However, Rangpur struck at key moments, preventing any long, match-defining partnership from taking shape.
The middle overs shifted the momentum. Rangpur’s bowlers tightened their lines, bowled into the pitch, and forced Fortune Barishal’s batters into riskier shots. Wickets at regular intervals stalled the chase and steadily pushed the required rate upward. Fielding also played a role, with sharp stops and well-judged catching adding to the pressure.
Despite losing wickets, Fortune Barishal remained in the contest through aggressive batting in the latter half of the innings. A couple of quick boundaries briefly reignited hopes, but Rangpur responded with calm execution. Their bowlers stuck to their plans, mixing pace effectively and attacking the stumps to deny easy scoring options.
The final overs highlighted Rangpur’s composure. Instead of defending runs passively, they continued to look for wickets, forcing Fortune Barishal to chase the game rather than control it. As the equation became tougher, the chasing side struggled to find consistent boundaries, and the required rate spiraled out of reach.
In the end, Fortune Barishal fell 17 runs short, finishing well below the target despite moments of promise. Rangpur’s ability to defend 181 was built on collective effort rather than individual brilliance — a sign of a well-balanced T20 unit.
12BET Shortlisted for Sportsbook Operator of the Year at SBC Awards 2025