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BSP-25
CRICKET-RUPGANJ-TEAM-SPIRIT
Emboldened by team spirit, Rupganj eyes bigger prize
DHAKA, April 7, 2019 (BSS)—Nobody even gave it a thought that Legends of Rupganj would beat Abahani Limited, a red-hot favourite side, in the Dhaka Premier League (DPL) in such an effortless manner.
But Rupganj had no lack of belief that they are capable of doing it. They even sensed it once they won the toss in a pitch which was under cover due to overnight thunderstorm and rain. Once it was uncovered and Rupganj won the all important toss, they didn’t hesitate to go for ultimate kill.
They even didn’t let loose the baton and relentlessly kept up the pressure to skittle Abahani out for 122 in just 39.1 overs. With paltry total to defend, the job was half done. Thereafter the openers batted with much serenity to add 62-run which made the task such easier that only miracle could help Abahani to win the game.
As they were on verge of the victory, Rupganj lost some quick wickets which ruined their hopes to inflict more embarrassment on Abahani Limited. But the six-wicket win was enough for them to seal the top spot, for which they were craving for.
They are now league leader with 18 points from 10 games. As their last group phase game is against Uttara Sporting Club, the bottom table team, they are expecting to win it with ease and go to the Super League as a group champion.
Since the points of the group phase will be carried into the super league phase, they will be in advantageous position should they keep up their position.
However beating Abahani Limited was their first step towards the title, said Rupganj coach Aftab Ahmed.
The former national hard-hitter batsman believed if they can keep up the team spirit that they showed throughout the league including the match against Abahani, they have the good chance to clinch the title.
“It’s all about the team spirit and our sincere effort which made us team to beat,” Aftab said here today after beating Abahani. “We know what we are going to do. We kept our belief on the players and told them to play with freedom. Against a team like Abahani, you have to give you utmost effort and credit should go to the players that they kept up the intensity.”
Aftab said the victory against Abahani gave them the confidence which they should capitalize.
“The victory is a confidence booster. Hopefully players would be confident enough about our chance to clinch the title. You have to believe that you are capable of winning it.”
“I hope, emboldened by the victory, the players will be confident to win the title which is our ultimate goal,” he concluded.
BSS/SMP/SMM/18:30 hrs9