As cricket enthusiasts eagerly await the upcoming BPL 2024 season, let’s take a moment to revisit the exhilarating final of the 2023 edition, a match etched in the annals of the Bangladesh Premier League. The final, a clash between the Comilla Victorians and Sylhet Strikers, was a rollercoaster of a contest, and it offers valuable insights for predicting what the BPL 2024 season might have in store.
Comilla Victorians’ Title Triumph
The 2023 BPL final was nothing short of a spectacle. The Comilla Victorians, led by their exceptional batting lineup and spurred by an 11-match winning streak, pulled off a remarkable victory in their pursuit of a challenging target of 176 runs. A target of this magnitude would be a significant feat to chase, but the Victorians’ performance proved that they were up to the task.
Explosive Batting Display
What made this final particularly memorable was the explosive batting from the Comilla Victorians. Johnson Charles, the destructive opener, played a pivotal role, smashing an unbeaten 79* from just 52 balls. His partner in the middle order, Litton Das, contributed a splendid 55 runs from 39 balls. Together, they created a batting masterclass that propelled the Victorians to their fourth BPL title, and their second consecutive one.
The combination of Charles and Litton’s aggressive yet calculated approach ultimately led to the Victorians clinching the title with seven wickets in hand and four balls to spare. It was a fitting end to a season that had initially seen the Victorians stumble with three losses.
Sylhet Strikers’ Stellar Journey
The Sylhet Strikers, who stood as worthy finalists, showcased their prowess throughout the tournament. They secured their spot in the final by defeating Rangpur Riders in the second qualifier. Their final total of 175 runs was no small feat, featuring attractive fifties from Mushfiqur Rahim and Najmul Hossain Shanto.
An Explosive Start
The final kicked off with a manic start as Shanto and Towhid Hridoy exploited fielding errors to accelerate the scoreboard. Overthrows and misfields from the Victorians added extra runs for the Strikers. Unfortunately for the Strikers, the early promise was somewhat marred as they lost wickets in quick succession. Captain Mashrafe Mortaza’s promotion to No. 3 in the batting order did not yield significant returns, as he fell to the crafty Andre Russell.
Mushfiqur and Shanto Lead the Charge
The standout performers for the Strikers were Mushfiqur Rahim and Najmul Hossain Shanto. Both displayed their prowess with exceptional fifties. In particular, Shanto’s performance was noteworthy as he became the first Bangladeshi player to amass 500 runs in a single BPL season. The partnership between Shanto and Mushfiqur, worth 79 runs, was the driving force behind the Strikers’ competitive total.
Dropped Catches and Fielding Errors
The match also witnessed a series of dropped catches and fielding mishaps, mainly from the Victorians. Mustafizur Rahman had an eventful day, dropping two catches, one of which was a rather straightforward opportunity. The Victorians’ fielding struggles were indicative of the manic nature of the match.
Litton and Charles – A Winning Combination
In their chase, the Comilla Victorians got off to a blistering start, courtesy of Litton Das, who provided the quick momentum they needed. Litton’s innings included seven fours and a six, showcasing his diverse shot-making skills. His departure, caught brilliantly by Shanto, marked the end of an impressive performance.
However, Johnson Charles took over the reins, ensuring a thrilling finish. When Litton departed, the Victorians required 72 runs from 44 deliveries, a tricky stage in the match. Charles, initially cautious, later unleashed a barrage of powerful strokes, particularly in the 17th over. This explosive display brought the required run rate down to a manageable level, setting the stage for a resounding victory.
Looking Ahead to BPL 2024
As we revisit the intense final of BPL 2023, it provides a glimpse into what fans can expect in the upcoming BPL 2024 season. The BPL has a history of delivering breathtaking cricket, with nail-biting contests, powerful batting displays, and remarkable individual performances. Fans can only anticipate that BPL 2024 will continue this tradition, promising excitement, drama, and unforgettable moments on the cricket field.