DHAKA, —Openers Liton Das and Soumya Sarkar powered Gazi Group Chattogram to a respectable 175-4 against Minister Group Rajshahi in their last game of the Bangabandhu T20 Cup at Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium on Saturday.

Soumya Sarkar struck highest 63 off 48, his consecutive second fifty in the tournament, following his 37 ball-67 against Gemcon Khulna while Liton Das hit 55 off 43.

The duo shared 122 runs for the opening stand after Chattogram was sent to bat first. Both of the openers took the Rajshahi bowlers in disdain to pave a way for a big total and scored runs at 9 per over, which indicated that they could end up close to 200 or above.

Rajshahi, for whom the match is crucial to seal the playoffs, hit back nicely, removing both of the openers for four runs. Anisul Islam Emon had Soumya caught by wicket-keeper Nurul Hasan Sohan after his impeccable knock that was studded by three fours and four sixes.

Liton who smacked five fours and one six was dismissed by Rezaur Rahman after trying to play a scoop shot.

Rajshahi bowlers then stifled the Chattogram innings and forced the batsmen to slow down. At the same time, they took wickets in quick succession to further increase the pressure.

Shamsur Rahman Shuvo then broke the shackle, hitting the bowlers at will, which again gave Chattogram the edge. Shamshur remained unbeaten on 30 off 18, smashing one four and three fours.

Anisul Islam Emon was the most successful bowler for Rajshahi with 2-21. Chattogram will remain atop of the point table regardless of the result of the match.

Brief Score:

Gazi Group Chattogram 175-4 in 20 overs (Soumya Sarkar 63, Liton Das, 55, Shamsur Rahman 30 not out; Anisul Emon 2-21, Saifuddin 1-32, Rezaur Rahman 1-38)