BPL 2025: Khulna Tigers edged out Durbar Rajshahi by seven runs in a high-scoring thriller at the Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium, Chattogram, on Sunday.

Despite a heroic unbeaten century from Rajshahi skipper Anamul Haque, Khulna's disciplined bowling and collective batting effort secured their victory in the 26th match of the Bangladesh Premier League 2025.

Electing to bat first, Khulna amassed an imposing 209/4, propelled by Afif Hossain's steady 56 off 42 balls and William Bosisto's unbeaten 55 off 37 deliveries. Mehidy Hasan Miraz (26 off 13) and Mohammad Naim (27 off 14) gave Khulna a blazing start, adding 42 runs within the first four overs. Taskin Ahmed struck twice during the powerplay to peg back the Tigers, but Bosisto and Afif steadied the innings with a 113-run stand. Mahidul Islam Ankon added late fireworks with a blistering 30 off just 12 balls, pushing Khulna past the 200-run mark.

Rajshahi's chase began positively, with Jishan Alam smashing 30 off 15 balls, but Hasan Mahmud's twin strikes -- including the wickets of Alam and Mohammad Haris-set them back. Anamul Haque took charge, displaying sublime form with a majestic 100* off 57 balls, studded with nine fours and five sixes. He found some support from Yasir Ali (20) and Ryan Burl (25), but regular wickets derailed Rajshahi's momentum.

With 17 runs needed off the final over, Anamul kept his side in the hunt, but Khulna pacer Hasan Mahmud, named Player of the Match for his figures of 2/25, held his nerve to restrict Rajshahi to 202/4. Salman Irshad and Abu Hider chipped in with crucial wickets to complement Mahmud's effort.

The match highlighted Anamul's brilliance, earning him Cricinfo's MVP recognition, but Rajshahi's inability to capitalize on key moments proved costly. Khulna's win secured them two valuable points and underscored their title aspirations, while Rajshahi was left to rue missed opportunities.