Sabbir’s Late Cameo Secures Emotional Win for Dhaka

The match between Dhaka Capitals and Rajshahi Warriors at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium on 28 December 2025 was overshadowed by a profound tragedy. Moments before the toss, Dhaka’s assistant coach, Mahbub Ali Zaki, fell critically ill. Although he was rushed to a nearby hospital, he was tragically pronounced dead, leaving the Dhaka dugout in a state of mourning. Despite the somber atmosphere, the Capitals managed to compose themselves to secure a five-wicket victory, largely thanks to an explosive cameo by Sabbir Rahman.

Imad Wasim Dismantles Rajshahi’s Top Order

Dhaka’s victory was set up by a masterclass in left-arm orthodox bowling from Pakistan international Imad Wasim. After Dhaka won the toss and elected to field, Imad struck with the very first delivery of the match, dismissing Sahibzada Farhan for a golden duck. He continued to strangle the Rajshahi batsmen in the middle overs, accounting for the dangerous Najmul Hossain Shanto and Yasir Ali.

Najmul, a centurion in the previous fixture, appeared set for another big score but was halted at 37. Experienced campaigner Mushfiqur Rahim contributed 24, while Mohammad Nawaz’s unbeaten 26 helped Rajshahi limp to a modest total of 132/8.

Match Statistical Summary

Sabbir Rahman’s Clinical Finish

Chasing a target of 133, Dhaka faced an early setback when Saif Hassan was bowled for just 1. However, Abdullah Al Mamun played a steadying innings, scoring 45 off 39 balls. The chase stuttered momentarily due to a sluggish 19 from Nasir Hossain, leaving Dhaka needing 35 runs from the final 25 deliveries.

The momentum shifted decisively in the 17th over when Sabbir Rahman and Shamim Hossain took 15 runs off the Nepalese leg-spinner Sandeep Lamichhane. Sabbir’s blistering 21 runs off just 10 balls ensured that Dhaka reached the target with seven balls to spare. It was a fitting, albeit quiet, celebration for a team playing under the shadow of the loss of their coach. Imad Wasim was deservedly named Player of the Match for his clinical spell of 3/16.