Shoriful stars in Abahani's DPL rout of Sheikh Jamal

What could have been the game of the season, Abahani Limited made it one-sided one, securing a crushing 10-wicket victory against Sheikh Jamal Dhanmondi Club in their last match of the Dhaka Premier League (DPL) group phase at Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium today. 

Abahani indeed kept its unbeaten run in the group phase, having won an eye-popping 11th victory in a row. The victory also ensured Abahani's massive advantage in Super League phase as they were eying to defend the title. 

The reigning champions will start the six-team Super League phase with six points clear from their nearest rivals. 

At this moment, Sheikh Jamal had eight wins from 11 matches but Mohammedan Sporting Club and Shinepukur who would play the last game tomorrow, could join Jamal in securing eight wins before the Super League. 

Pacer Shoriful Islam claimed 4-35 to play a key role in the big victory of Abahani. He was complemented by two wickets each from fast bowler Taskin Ahmed (2-16) and left-arm spinner Tanvir Ahmed (2-7) as Abahani skittled Jamal out for just 88 in 22.4 overs after inviting them to bat first. 

Opener Naim Sheikh plundered the bowlers for all corners of the park, hitting 40 ball-53 not out while Anamul Haque Bijoy hammered 22 ball-37 as Abahani raced to the victory in just 10.2 overs, having totaled 91 for no loss. 

For Sheikh Jamal, only four batters could reach the double digits with opener Shykat Ali top-scoring 23. Yasir Ali Chowdhury scored 17, Saif Hasan made 16 while Taibur Rahman added 14. 

Sheikh Jamal however was without the service of ace allrounder Shakib Al Hasan, who opted out of the DPL. Shakib is in the USA now with his family and will return to the country ahead of the five-match T20 series against Zimbabwe.