Off-spinner Nahidul Islam claimed 4/12 to guide Khulna Tigers to a hard-fought four-wicket victory against Chattogram Challengers in their first match of the Bangladesh Premier League Saturday at Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur.
Pakistan recruit Faheem Ashraf complemented Nahidul with 3/20 while the West Indies recruit Oshane Thomas took 2/38 as Chattogram were skittled out for 121 runs in 19.5 overs.
Chasing a small target, Khulna also huffed and puffed before sealing the deal in 18.2 overs with Mahmudul Hasan Joy making the highest 39 off 44.
He struck one four and one six in his innings.
Afif Hossain was the other notable contributor with 26.
Joy and Afif lifted the side with a brief but crucial 46-run which was instrumental in chasing the target successfully at the end.
Chattogram, who beat Sylhet Strikers by seven wickets just 24 hours ago, made the game competitive with small total, thanks to Al-Amin Hossain who bagged two early wickets, leaving Khulna 32/3.
His dismissals were big hitters Evin Lewis (12) and Shai Hope (nine), both of whom hail from the West Indies.
Another pacer Shohidul Islam got the better of Khula captain Anamul Haque for nine.
Shohidul, who grabbed two wickets, was also the highest scorer for the port city outfit, hitting a 31-ball 40 with four fours and one six.
His knock was vital in propelling the side past 100 after they were seven down for 80.
Just two other batters of Chattogram could reach double digit with Najibullah Zadran clubbing 24 and Tanzid Hasan Tamim adding 19.
4TH MATCH
Chattogram Challengers 121 in 19.5 overs (Shohidul 40, Nahidul 4/12) lost to Khulna Tigers 122/6 in 18.2 overs (Joy 39, Afif 26) by 4 wickets
