Imad Wasim shines as Capitals thump Warriors in BPL 2025-26 campaign opener

SYLHET: Imad Wasim's economical bowling figures of 3/16 led Dhaka Capitals to a comfortable five-wicket victory over Rajshahi Warriors in the third match of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) 2025-26 here at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium on Saturday.

Put into bat first, the Warriors could accumulate 132/8 in their 20 overs despite their captain Najmul Hossain Shanto's anchoring knock.

Shanto waged a lone battle for his side against a disciplined Capitals' bowling attack and top-scored with a 27-ball 38, featuring two sixes and as many fours, while Pakistan international Mohammad Nawaz made a notable contribution with a run-a-ball 26 not out.

Imad was the standout bowler for the Capitals, taking three wickets for just 16 runs in his four overs, followed by Nasir Hossain with two, while Salman Mirza, Ziaur Rahman and Mohammad Saifuddin chipped in with one apiece.

For his economical bowling performance, Imad Wasim was adjudged the Player of the Match.

Chasing a modest 133-run target, the Capitals comfortably struck the winning runs for the loss of five wickets and seven balls to spare.

Leading the way for them was Abdullah Al Mamun, who top-scored with a brisk 45 off 39 deliveries, studded with four fours and a six.

Following his anchoring knock, batting all-rounder Sabbir Rahman's 21-run blistering cameo at the backend steered the Capitals over the line.

Mohammad Nawaz was the pick of the bowlers for the Warriors as he picked up three wickets for just 21 runs in his four overs, while Tanzim Hasan Sakib and Sandeep Lamichhane could claim one apiece.

The five-wicket victory slotted Dhaka Capitals to the second position in the BPL 2025-26 standings, only behind Chattogram Royals on net run rate, while Rajshahi Warriors slipped to fourth.