The Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) 2024-25 witnessed a spectacular performance by the Chittagong Kings as they faced Durbar Rajshahi in the 7th match of the tournament. Held at the Shere Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka, the Kings showcased their dominance, securing a comprehensive 105-run victory, largely propelled by a remarkable century from Usman Khan.

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Date	January 3, 2025
Venue	Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium, Mirpur, Dhaka
Tournament	Bangladesh Premier League 2024-25
Match	Chittagong Kings vs. Durbar Rajshahi
Toss	Durbar Rajshahi, elected to field first
Player Of The Match	Usman Khan
Result	Chittagong Kings won by 105 runs

Chittagong Kings’ innings was anchored by an explosive century from Usman Khan, who scored 123 runs off 62 balls, featuring 13 fours and 6 sixes. His partnerships with Graham Clark (40 off 25) and Mohammad Mithun (28 off 15) were instrumental in setting a daunting target. Durbar Rajshahi’s bowlers struggled to contain the onslaught, with only Taskin Ahmed (2/22) showing some resistance.

In their chase, Durbar Rajshahi faced early setbacks, losing wickets at regular intervals. Mohammad Haris provided a brief glimmer of hope with a quickfire 32 off 15 balls, but the lack of substantial partnerships led to their downfall. Chittagong’s bowlers, particularly Arafat Sunny (3/23) and Aliss Al Islam (3/17), exploited the conditions effectively, dismantling the opposition’s batting lineup.

Durbar Rajshahi won the toss and elected to field, aiming to capitalize on early bowling conditions. However, Chittagong Kings capitalized on the opportunity to bat first, amassing a formidable total of 219/5 in their allotted 20 overs. In response, Durbar Rajshahi’s batting lineup faltered under pressure, managing only 114 runs before being bowled out in 17.1 overs.

Chittagong Kings

• Strengths: A powerful top-order batting lineup capable of setting or chasing large totals. The bowling unit demonstrated depth and versatility, with spinners and pacers contributing crucial wickets.
• Weaknesses: Despite the victory, the lower middle-order had limited exposure, which could be a concern in tighter contests.

Durbar Rajshahi

• Strengths: Possess aggressive batsman like Mohammad Haris who can accelerate the scoring rate. Taskin Ahmed’s bowling was a positive takeaway.
• Weaknesses: The batting lineup lacked stability, with frequent loss of wickets preventing momentum. Bowling discipline was an issue, conceding a high run rate without consistent breakthroughs.

Chittagong Kings

• Usman Khan: Delivered a match-winning century, his 123 runs setting the foundation for the team’s imposing total.
• Arafat Sunny: His economical spell of 3/23 curtailed the opposition’s scoring and secured vital wickets.

Durbar Rajshahi

• Mohammad Haris: Offred a fleeting counter-attack with a brisk 32, though it was insufficient to shift the game’s momentum.
• Taskin Ahmed: Stood out in the bowling department with figures of 2/22, showcasing control amidst an otherwise challenging innings.

• Graham Clark: His ability to build partnerships and accelerate the innings makes him a crucial asset.
• Shoriful Islam: As a pacer, his role in providing early breakthroughs will be vital in upcoming matches.
• Anamul Haque: The captain’s form at the top of the order is essential for setting a solid foundation.
• Ryan Burl: His all-round capabilities can offer balance to the team, both with bat and ball.

The Shere Bangla National Stadium pitch favored batsmen, offering consistent bounce and minimal lateral movement. However, as the game progressed, spinners found some turn, which was effectively utilized by Chittagong’s bowlers. The outfield was quick, rewarding well-timed shots.

Chittagong Kings

• Batting: Exploited powerplay overs to build a strong foundation, allowing middle-order batsmen to play with freedom.
• Bowling: Maintained pressure through tight lines and lengths, forcing the opposition into making errors.

Durbar Rajshahi

• Batting: Needed to establish partnerships and rotate the strike to chase the substantial target but failed to do so.
• Bowling: Required more variation and discipline to contain the aggressive batting of the Kings.

• Umpires: Asif Yaqoob
• Third Umpire: Muhammad Kamruzzaman
• Match Referee: Debabrata Paul
• TV Umpires: Morshed Ali Khan
• Reserve Umpire: Moniruzzaman

The Bangladesh Premier League 2024-25 matches are broadcast live on various sports networks and streaming platforms. Fans can tune in to local sports channels or access live streams through official BPL streaming partners.

Chittagong Kings’ emphatic 105-run victory over Durbar Rajshahi underscores their formidable presence in the BPL 2024-25. Usman Khan’s explosive century and the bowlers’ cohesive effort highlight the team’s balanced prowess. Durbar Rajshahi will need to reassess their strategies, particularly in building resilient partnerships and enhancing bowling discipline, to rebound in the forthcoming matches.