Afif's hat-trick sets up mouthwatering finish to DPL

By defeating Sheikh Jamal Dhanmondi Club by six wickets, Abahani Limited have done their bit to stay in contention on a rain-marred day of the Dhaka Premier League's Super League stage. They have now moved to 24 points, equal with Gazi Group Cricketers whose final game against Prime Doleshwar Sporting Club - who are just two points behind both teams - will continue on Tuesday.

Abahani had to fight back after Dhanmondi Club raced to 95 for 1 in 13 overs. But offspinner Afif Hossain struck with a hat-trick in the 14th over, removing Abdullah Al Mamun, Sohag Gazi and Ziaur Rahman. He became the second bowler this season to take a hat-trick, after Victoria Sporting Club's Monir Hossain achieved the feat against Brothers Union.

Mahbubul Karim, who witnessed the hat-trick from the other end, made 60 off 59 balls with four sixes and as many fours. Dhanmondi Club's innings was interrupted on 162 for 7 after 30.4 overs, following which Abahani's target was revised to 124 runs in 20 overs.

Saif Hassan blasted a 40-ball 51 with five fours and two sixes, adding 58 for the second wicket with Shadman Islam. They lost two quick wickets before Mohammad Mithun's unbeaten 22-ball 29 completed the chase with 16 balls to spare.

The game between Mohammedan Sporting Club and Prime Bank Cricket Club, too, will continue on Tuesday as rain interrupted Mohammedan Sporting Club's innings in which they batted for 43.3 overs to score 187 for 6.