ULAB cruise into semis, set up Scholars showdown

University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh (ULAB) stormed into the semi-finals of the ABG University Cup with a comfortable six-wicket victory over Daffodil International University (DIU) at Anvir Cricket Stadium, ABG Sports City, on Tuesday.

Chasing 166 for victory in a do-or-die Group A encounter, ULAB reached the target with six wickets in hand, ending DIU’s semi-final hopes and paving the way for a last-four clash against the University of Scholars.

Opener Shabab Jamil laid the foundation with a composed 52 off 47 balls before Zakirul Ahmed took charge, dismantling the DIU bowling attack with a blistering 77 off just 45 deliveries. Salauddun Sourav then provided the finishing touch with an unbeaten 31 off 18 balls.

For DIU, Sajzad Rahman claimed two wickets, but his efforts were not enough to prevent ULAB from sealing the victory.

Earlier, after winning the toss, ULAB elected to field and restricted DIU to 165. Opener Riazul Islam top-scored with a 64 off 51 balls, but DIU failed to maintain their momentum as ULAB's pace attack struck at regular intervals. Parag led the bowling effort with three wickets, while Naim picked up one.

Zakirul was named Player of the Match for his match-winning innings. Daily Sun Editor Md Rezaul Karim presented him with the award.

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.