Khulna Tigers secured their place in the playoffs of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) 2024-25 after defeating Dhaka Capitals by six wickets on February 1, 2025, at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium. This victory, inspired by their charismatic captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz, was pivotal as it marked the Tigresses’ entry as the fourth and final team to advance.
Dhaka Capitals, who had already been eliminated from playoff contention, started the match on the back foot. Although they won the toss and opted to bat first, their innings faltered under pressure, with notable contributions coming only from Tanzid Hasan. The left-handed opener set the tone early, smashing 58 runs off just 37 balls, including seven sixes and one four. Despite his efforts, Dhaka Capitals ended their innings on a modest 123-9, with no other batsman crossing 20 runs.
Mehidy Hasan Miraz, leading by example, not only shone with the bat but also played a significant role with the ball. He wrapped up his bowling figures at 1-30, contributing to holding the Capitals to their meager total. Khulna’s bowlers collectively tightened the noose around the Capitals’ batting lineup, with standout performances from Hasan Mahmud, who took 2-5, and William Bosisto, claiming 2-10.
Despite the opening blows dealt by Dhaka’s fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman, who reduced Khulna to 14-2 by dismissing both Mohammad Naim and Afif Hossain for ducks, Miraz steadied the ship. He effortlessly navigated through early jitters, scoring 74 runs off 55 pitches—an innings marked by poise and aggression, featuring five boundaries and four sixes. His partnership with Alex Ross, who added 22 runs, was particularly fruitful, yielding 68 runs and bringing the Tigers closer to their target.
Khulna Tigers eventually achieved their target, finishing at 128-4 within 16.5 overs, confirming their playoff qualification and marking the end of the group stage with 12 points, tied with Durbar Rajshahi, but advancing on net run rate. They are now set to play the Eliminator match.
Miraz’s performance earned him the Player of the Match accolade, with his all-round contributions underscoring his impact on the game. The victory not only secured Khulna’s playoff destiny but also faded Dhaka Capitals from playoff discussions as they ended their season with just three wins.
Moving forward, Khulna will focus on their Eliminator game, hoping to build momentum based on their strong finish and capitalize on the leadership of Mehidy Hasan Miraz, who remains optimistic about their chances.