Shykat Ali’s 88* Steers Dhaka Leopards to Dominant DPL Win Over Gulsan

Dhaka Leopards stormed to a commanding six-wicket victory over Gulsan Cricket Club in the Dhaka Premier League (DPL), courtesy of a masterful, unbeaten 88 from Shykat Ali. Chasing 179 at the Savar ground on Wednesday, the Leopards recovered from a disastrous start and clinched the target in just 34.4 overs, showcasing composure and firepower in equal measure.

Gulsan’s Fragile Start and Middle-Order Surge

After winning the toss and electing to bat, Gulsan got off to a nightmarish beginning. Moinul Islam Tonmoy was dismissed for a golden duck on the third ball, followed swiftly by Shakib Shahriyer in the second over. At 1 for 2, the innings was on the brink.

A recovery was sparked by Alif Hasan Emon and Shahriar Sakib, who stitched together a 60-run stand. Emon played an aggressive knock of 43 off 45 balls, laced with 6 fours and a six, before falling LBW to Arafat Sunny. Sakib chipped in with 17 off 28, but couldn’t prolong his stay.

Shahadat Hossain Sabbir anchored briefly with a cautious 21 off 44 balls, but momentum stalled. The innings received a brief spark from Mosabber Hossain, whose 29 off 17 deliveries—fueled by a four and three sixes—lifted the scoring. However, his dismissal once again derailed Gulsan’s progress.

With Farhad Reza run out for zero at 118, the middle order faltered. Abdur Rahim offered resistance with a measured 34 off 51 balls, including a four and three sixes, while Nayem Hossain Sakib labored for 15 off 64. Ultimately, Gulsan were bowled out for 178 in 46.4 overs—a total that looked defendable but lacked the knockout punch.

Dhaka Leopards’ Bowling Shines Early

The Leopards’ bowling unit shared the load effectively. Arafat Sunny and Moin Khan each claimed two wickets, while Hasan Murad delivered a tidy spell—2 wickets for just 26 runs in 9 overs. Alaudin Babu, Al Fahad, and Sheikh Parvez Jibon each added one scalp to keep pressure constant.

Shykat Ali Anchors the Chase

Chasing 179, Dhaka Leopards mirrored Gulsan’s shaky start. Openers Jowad Abrar and Zakir Hasan fell early for just 5 runs combined, raising nerves among supporters.

But Shykat Ali and Iftakhar Hossain Ifti stepped up with a crucial 83-run partnership that shifted the game firmly in their favor. Ifti played a composed hand of 46 off 66 balls, with three boundaries and a six, laying the foundation for the finish.

Ali, however, was the undisputed star. Starting cautiously, he gradually took control, unleashing seven massive sixes and two fours in his 90-ball 88*. His fearless assault, particularly against the spinners, dismantled Gulsan’s bowling plans and silenced their resistance.

Final Push Seals the Win

After Ifti’s dismissal, Mohammad Mithun accelerated with a brisk 33 off 31 balls—laced with 2 fours and 2 sixes—narrowing the equation rapidly. The remaining runs were comfortably seen through as Ali remained unbeaten, steering his side home alongside Moin Khan.

For Gulsan, Shahadat Hossain Sobuj claimed two early wickets, while Tanvir Ahmed and Abdur Rahim picked up one apiece. However, they failed to sustain pressure or break key partnerships.

Dhaka Leopards’ victory was built on balance—strong bowling, calm rebuilding, and a match-winning individual performance. Shykat Ali’s 88* wasn’t just a score; it was a statement.