DHAKA, March 22, 2023 (BSS)- Naim Shiekh struck a brilliant century as 
Abahani Limited secured a facile six-wicket win over old foes Mohammedan 
Sporting Club in the Dhaka Premier League (DPL) today at Sher-e-Bangla 
National Cricket Stadium.

Having done so, Abahani overcame a hurdle and clinched their third straight 
victory.

Opting to bat first, Mohammedan posted 235-8, a total that Abahani hunted 
down in just 34.3 overs, thanks to a blazing 86 ball-110 not out of Naim 
Sheikh. 

The opener who brought up the half-century of 53 balls, overall hammered 11 
fours and three sixes in his knock. He was adjudged man of the match for his 
century in the clash, always considered as high octane game even though the 
excitement of the rivalry between the two teams has been sweet past now.

Afif Hossain, who had recently been dropped from the national team, hit 49 
off 41, striking four fours and three sixes to play a vital role in the 
victory.

Mosaddek Hossain Saikat was not out 25 while Mahmudul Hasan Joy added 24.

Ruyel Mea, Mahmudullah Riyad, Enamul Haque Junior and Soumya Sarkar picked up 
one wicket for Mohammedan.

But the start was stark contrast to how the match ended. Mohammedan openers 
made a bright start with Imrul Kayes and Mohidul Islam Ankan sharing 137-run 
for the opening stand.

Medium pacer Saifuddin brought back Abahani to the contention, claiming 4-45. 

Abahani were able to break the partnership during 28.3 over. However, though 
the platform was well set, Mohammedan batters failed to capitalize on as they 
made just 98 runs in the last 21.3 overs. 

Ankan made team-high 70 off 85 while Imrul Kayes scored 68. After their 
departure, Mohammedan lost four wickets for 13 runs with left-arm spinner 
Tanvir Islam and pacer Tanzim Hasan Sakib getting into act with Saifuddin.

Both of them took two wickets to complement Saifuddin's four-for.

Mohammedan's Indian recruit Anustop Mojumdar hinted to bring the side back in 
contention before Sakib got rid of him on 30. Ariful Haque later batted till 
the last to make 37 not out but that was not enough to give Mohammedan a 
total to challenge archrivals Abahani Limited.