Naim half-century lifts Khulna to 187-5 against Barishal

Dhaka, 27 Jan - Opener Naim Sheikh hammered a 27 ball-51 as Khulna 

Tigers compiled a respectable 187-5 against Fortune Barishal in their 10th 
game of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) at Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket 
Stadium today.

While Naim's start was pivotal, Mahidul Islam Ankon gave the finishing touch 
in style with 12 ball-27 not out, smashing two fours and three sixes.

Naim and skipper Mehidy Hasan Miraz shared 47 runs for the opening stand 
after being put into bat first. 

Fast bowler Ebadot Hossain broke through with the wicket of Miraz who made 29 
off 18 but Naim, ably supported by Alex Ross kept the scoreboard flowing 
rapidly.

Just after he reached his seventh BPL 50 with a towering six, Fahim Ashraf 
got the better of him, breaking the dangerous partnership. Naim struck five 
fours and three sixes in his knock. 

Barishal bowlers then regrouped well to stifle Khulna for runs even though 
Afif stood tall. Just as he hinted to break the shackle, Fahim Ashraf again 
got the breakthrough by dismissing Afif who added 32 off 27.

However, Ankon amended with some clean hitting that eventually helped the 
side nearing to 200.

Barishal had already confirmed the playoffs but a victory could lift them to 
top spot, breaking the long dominance of Rangpur Riders.

For Khulna, a win is imperative in this match to stay alive in the playoffs 
race.BSS