UAE's Waseem powers Rajshahi past sinking Noakhali

A blistering half-century from Muhammad Waseem helped Rajshahi Warriors pile further misery on Noakhali Express, handing them their sixth consecutive defeat in the ongoing Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) T20 with a four-wicket victory at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium on Thursday.

Waseem, the UAE captain, made an instant impact in his first appearance of the tournament, smashing 60 off 35 balls, laced with four fours and four sixes. He was supported by Tanzid Hasan Tamim (21) and Ryan Burl, who remained unbeaten on 19, as Rajshahi chased down the target to reach 152 for six in 19 overs, registering their fourth win in five matches.

The victory lifted Rajshahi to third place in the six-team points table with eight points, while winless Noakhali remained rooted at the bottom after six outings and are virtually out of contention for a playoff spot.

Earlier, Noakhali showed signs of improvement with the bat after failing to cross the 150-run mark in their previous five matches. Soumya Sarkar top-scored with 59 off 43 balls, while Mohammad Nabi added 35 off 26 deliveries to guide Noakhali to 151 for five in their allotted 20 overs after being sent in to bat.

In a bid to turn their fortunes around, Noakhali handed Shahadat Hossain Dipu his first game of the tournament. He put on a 57-run opening stand with Soumya before falling to Ripon Mondol (2-27) for 30 off 28 balls. Rajshahi skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto also made an impact, dismissing Maaz Sadaqat (seven) with the first ball of the only over he bowled.

Despite a steady start, Noakhali failed to accelerate in the latter stages, settling for a below-par total against an in-form Rajshahi side.

Chasing 152, Rajshahi enjoyed a solid opening partnership between Waseem and Tamim. Although a few quick wickets fell in the middle overs, the result was never seriously in doubt, as they sealed the win with one over to spare. Noakhali pacer Mehedi Hasan Rana was the standout bowler, finishing with figures of three for 25 from four overs.