DIU set ULAB 166-run target in do-or-die clash

Daffodil International University (DIU) posted a target of 166 runs for University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh (ULAB) in their crucial Group A match of the ABG University Cup at the Anvir Cricket Stadium, ABG Sports City, on Tuesday.

After winning the toss, Group A table-toppers ULAB elected to field first and invited DIU to bat.

DIU opener Riazul Islam led the innings with a solid 64 off 51 balls. However, the middle order failed to maintain the momentum as ULAB's pace attack triggered a collapse.

Pacers Naim and Parag did the damage for ULAB, with the latter claiming three wickets, while Naim picked up one to put the brakes on the DIU innings.

ULAB need 166 runs for victory and have already secured their place in the semi-finals. For DIU, however, the equation is simple: they must successfully defend the target to book their place in the last four.

A defeat would see DIU's semi-final hopes come to an end and leave University of Scholars with a chance to progress, while a successful defence would secure DIU's place and eliminate University of Scholars from the competition.

The ABG University Cup, initiated by Anvir Bashundhara Group Chairman Sayem Sobhan Anvir, aims to bring university cricket under floodlights while promoting sporting excellence and camaraderie among private universities.