Miraz fills in for Tamim with a century while Emon’s ton extends Abahani’s dominance

Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Parvez Hossain Emon produced match-winning centuries as Mohammedan Sporting Club and Abahani Limited secured commanding victories in the Dhaka Premier League.

Miraz, opening the innings in place of the hospitalised Tamim Iqbal, led Mohammedan to a seven-wicket win over Shinepukur Cricket Club, while Emon's unbeaten 124 guided Abahani past Dhanmondi Sporting Club.

At BKSP Ground No. 3 on 24 March, Mohammedan comfortably chased down Shinepukur's 224-run target, reaching 227-3 in 42.2 overs. Miraz, promoted to open in Tamim's absence, capitalised on the opportunity, scoring a brilliant 103 off 81 balls. His innings, laced with 10 fours and three sixes, set the platform for Mohammedan's win. Rony Talukdar provided solid support with a measured 61 off 86 balls as the duo forged a 164-run opening stand.

Shinepukur, after being sent in to bat, were bowled out for 223 in 49.5 overs. Captain Ryan Rafsan Rahman top-scored with 77, while Shariful Islam added 57. Mohammedan's spinners dictated terms, with Taijul Islam taking three wickets, while Miraz, Nasum Ahmed, and Mohammad Saifuddin claimed two each.

Tamim, who initially came out for the toss, fell ill during fielding and was taken to hospital after experiencing chest pain. Tests later confirmed he had suffered two heart attacks, leading to an angioplasty and stent insertion. He remains under observation.

Meanwhile, at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium, Abahani continued their dominant run, securing a five-wicket win over Dhanmondi Sporting Club. Emon was the star of the chase, scoring an unbeaten 124 as the defending champions successfully reached their 202-run target.

Dhanmondi, batting first, struggled to build momentum, managing only 201 runs. Fazle Mahmud Rabbi anchored the innings with 87 off 126 balls, while Ziaur Rahman contributed 57. Abahani's bowling attack remained relentless, with Nahid Rana and Rakibul Hasan both claiming four wickets each.

In reply, Emon and Jisan provided a strong start, adding 57 for the first wicket before Jisan fell for 18. Despite brief setbacks, Emon ensured Abahani's chase stayed on course. His second century of the season came off 117 balls, featuring 12 fours and three sixes. He found support from Mosaddek Hossain Saikat, who scored 54 off 64 balls, before getting caught at deep mid-wicket.

Emon remained unbeaten, guiding Abahani to their seventh win in eight matches. Dhanmondi's Anamul Haque Anam was the pick of their bowlers, taking four wickets, but his efforts weren't enough to stop Abahani's march towards the top of the points table.