DHAKA, April 12, 2025 (BSS) - Mohammedan Sporting Club’s hope to seal the Dhaka Premier League (DPL) after two decades was bolstered further after they outclassed archrivals Abahani Limited by 39 runs at Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium today.

Opener Anisul Islam Emon led the much-needed victory with a dazzling 114 off 118, an innings decorated with 18 fours and two sixes.

Both Abahani and Mohammedan finished the group phase with 18 points from 11 matches but the defending champions Abahani is still occupying the top spot, thanks to better run rate.

Put into bat first, Mohammedan were bowled out for 264 in 48.2 overs, despite the aggressive century of Anisur. However the bowlers defended the total by dismissing Abahani for 225 in 47.2 overs with fast bowler Ebadot Hossain leading the way, having scalped 4-36. 

Mehidy Hasan Miraz (2-31) and Saifuddin (2-44) picked up two wickets apiece to give him ably support.

Mohammedan lost opener Rony Talukdar for 16 before Anisul, well complemented by Mahidul Islam Ankon put the side back in right back with 123 runs partnership for the second wicket.

The partnership was key in substantial total at the end. Ankon made 48 off 55 with five fours and one six before being bowled out by Rakibul Hasan.

Rakibul, along with Mrittunjoy Chowdhury and Mahfuzur Rahman Rabby triggered a collapse in Mohammedan’s middle order but Anisul remained unfazed as he played his shots at will to keep the runs flowing. 

He was the fifth batter out when pacer Nahid Rana had him caught by Jishan Alam. After his departure, Mohammedan were able to add just 33 runs in 10 overs before being all out.

Nahid finished with 3-49 while Mrittunjoy, Rakibul and Mahfuzur took two wickets apiece.

Abahani lost inform opener Parvez Hossain (16) and Jishan Alam (3) cheaply before skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto took the onus to drive the side.

But no one came up with handy support for the skipper, a thing that was instrumental in Abahani’s defeat to the old foes. Shanto top-scored for the side with 113 ball-80, clattering seven boundaries.