NSU’s semi-final dream ends as Sonargaon, Fareast cruise into last four

North South University’s (NSU) ABG University Cup semi-final dream came to an end after Sonargaon University thrashed them by seven wickets in their final Group B match at the Anvir Cricket Stadium, ABG Sports City, on Tuesday night.

The comprehensive victory saw Sonargaon finish the group stage unbeaten and secure top spot, while Fareast International University also confirmed their place in the semi-finals from Group B.

After winning the toss, NSU elected to bat first but could only manage 132-7 from their allotted 20 overs.

Farzan Ahmed top-scored with 44 off 39 balls, hitting a four and three sixes, while Niyon Yashin provided a late flourish with a quickfire 31 from just 13 deliveries, featuring four fours and two sixes.

Sonargaon’s bowlers, however, kept the scoring under control. Niru claimed three wickets, while Jibon produced an impressive all-round performance, taking 2-15 from his four overs. F Munshi and Hossain took one wicket each.

Chasing 133, Sonargaon made light work of the target, reaching 133-3 in just 10.4 overs.

Habibur Sheikh led the charge with a blistering unbeaten 57 off only 24 balls, smashing six sixes and three fours. Jibon continued his fine match with a brisk 34 off 17 balls, while Mosharraf added 19.

Shabab took two wickets for NSU, but their bowlers had no answer to Sonargaon’s aggressive batting.

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