In a thrilling start to the 46th edition of the Dhaka Premier Division Cricket League, Prime Bank Cricket Club made history by becoming the first team in Bangladesh to score over 400 runs in a List A game. This remarkable feat was achieved through the outstanding performance of Mohammad Naim, who smashed a remarkable 176 runs in a record-breaking total of 422 for 8 in 50 overs against Brothers Union.
The Dhaka Premier League has kicked off with a bang, showcasing competitive matches and unexpected outcomes that have set the stage for an exciting and unpredictable season. With all the top seven teams tied at four points each after dropping points in the initial round that commenced on March 3, the league is shaping up to be the most open competition in the last 15 years. Defending champions Abahani Limited, despite facing financial constraints in the 2024-25 season, have managed to hold their own among the top six teams.
As the spotlight shifts to the country’s most prestigious domestic competition following Bangladesh’s disappointing Champions Trophy campaign, cricket enthusiasts are eager to witness new talents emerge and established players shine. Among the standout performers of the season is Mohammad Naim, whose exceptional batting prowess and strategic strokeplay have positioned him as the leading run-scorer in domestic cricket. Naim’s stellar innings of 176 runs exemplifies his growth as a batsman, focusing on accumulating runs through calculated shot selection and consistent scoring.
On the bowling front, left-arm spinner Tanvir Islam has been a standout player for Legends of Rupganj, claiming three wickets in each of the first three matches. With impressive spells of 3 for 15 and 3 for 23 against Shinepukur Cricket Club and Gazi Group Cricketers respectively, Tanvir’s performance in the Dhaka Premier League marks a comeback from his underwhelming stint in the BPL. Having reached 150 List A wickets and completed 100 matches in the format on March 10, Tanvir is poised to make a significant impact in the ongoing season.
Prime Bank’s journey in the league commenced with a thrilling contest against Rupganj Tigers, where they clinched a narrow victory by three wickets. Despite a shaky start that saw them at 23 for 4 in the third over, Prime Bank staged a remarkable comeback thanks to an unbeaten 98-run innings by Shamim Hossain. Supported by Khaled Ahmed’s contribution of 28 runs, Shamim’s resilient batting display guided Prime Bank to a hard-fought win, showcasing the team’s tenacity and fighting spirit.
In addition to the top seven teams securing four points each, Gulshan Cricket Club, Partex Sporting Club, Shinepukur, and Brothers Union have amassed two points each in the early stages of the league. Meanwhile, Rupganj Tigers find themselves at the bottom of the table, yet to secure a win after three consecutive losses. As the competition unfolds, promising young talents like Mahfijul Islam from Brothers Union and Parvez Hossain Emon, fresh off his Champions Trophy campaign, are poised to make a significant impact with their impressive batting performances.
With the Dhaka Premier League setting the stage for a thrilling season of cricket, fans and players alike are gearing up for a rollercoaster ride filled with excitement, drama, and exceptional displays of skill. As the league progresses, all eyes will be on the standout performers and rising stars who are set to leave their mark on Bangladesh’s most prestigious domestic competition.
