KT vs KINGS (3rd Match) – Highlights
In this article, we will discuss the thrilling encounter between KT and KINGS in the 3rd match of the Bangladesh Premier League 2024, held at Mirpur on December 31. The match was a showcase of high-quality cricket, with Khulna Tigers setting a formidable total of 203/4 and eventually securing a commanding 37-run victory. The game featured explosive batting, disciplined bowling, and key performances that turned the tide in favor of the Tigers. This contest not only highlighted the depth of talent in the league but also set the stage for an exciting tournament ahead.
Batting first, the KT displayed an aggressive yet composed batting approach. Opener Mohammad Naim provided a solid start, smashing 26 runs off 17 balls, including a six and a boundary, before falling to Al Islam. William Bosisto anchored the innings brilliantly, scoring an unbeaten 75 off 50 balls with eight fours and three sixes. Captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz chipped in with a steady 18, while Ibrahim Zadran managed only 6 runs before being dismissed by Khaled Ahmed.
The game-changing moment came in the latter part of the innings when Mahidul Islam Ankon unleashed an explosive knock. Remaining unbeaten, he smashed 59 off just 22 balls, including a six and six towering maximums, at an astounding strike rate of 268.18. His blitzkrieg, combined with Bosisto’s stability, powered Khulna to a daunting total of 203/4 in their allotted 20 overs.
KINGS faced a steep chase, and their innings started on a shaky note. Early breakthroughs from Oshane Thomas and Abu Hider rattled the top order, reducing the Kings to 56/5 within seven overs. Naeem Islam, Parvez Hossain Emon, and captain Mohammad Mithun failed to capitalize on their starts, while Haider Ali fell for a duck.
Shamim Hossain emerged as the lone warrior for the Kings, playing a breathtaking knock of 78 runs off 38 balls, decorated with seven fours and five sixes. His counterattacking innings gave the Kings a glimmer of hope, but the lack of support from other batters proved costly. Khaled Ahmed added a quickfire 14 towards the end, but it was too little, too late.
Khulna’s bowlers executed their plans to perfection. Abu Hider was the standout, claiming four crucial wickets for 44 runs, while Mohammad Nawaz’s economical spell of 2/13 in three overs tightened the screws on the opposition. Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Nasum Ahmed also chipped in with crucial breakthroughs.
In the end, Khulna’s balanced team performance ensured a convincing victory, setting the tone for their campaign.
Khulna Tigers vs Chittagong Kings Scoreboard
Khulna Tigers– 203/4
Chittagong Kings– 166(18.5/20)
Result – Khulna won by 37 runs
Player of the Match – Mahidul Islam Ankon
KT vs KINGS Playing XI
Khulna Tigers
Mohammad Naim, William Bosisto, Mehidy Hasan Miraz(C), Ibrahim Zadran, Afif Hossain, Mahidul Islam Ankon(wk), Nasum Ahmed, Hasan Mahmud, Abu Hider, Mohammad Nawaz, Oshane Thomas
Chittagong Kings
Naeem Islam, Parvez Hossain Emon, Usman Khan, Mohammad Mithun(WK)(C), Haider Ali, Shamim Hossain, Tom O’Connell, Mohammad Wasim, Shoriful Islam, Al Islam, Khaled Ahmed
Disclaimer: These match highlights reflect the author’s insights and analysis. Readers are encouraged to consider the points discussed and form their own conclusions.