Sonargaon storm into ABG University Cup final

A destructive half-century from opener Habibur Sheikh powered Sonargaon to a seven-wicket victory over University of Scholars in the second semi-final at the Anvir Cricket Stadium, ABG Sports City, on Wednesday.

Put in to bat after losing the toss, University of Scholars posted a competitive 165-9 from their 20 overs.

Shubho top-scored with a blistering 42 off just 24 balls, featuring four fours and three sixes, while opener Rakib Ahmed contributed 39 off 43 deliveries.

Late cameos from Saad, who struck 26 off 12 balls, and Mehedi, who made 20 from 17, helped Scholars reach a fighting total.

Maidul Islam was the most economical bowler for Sonargaon, taking two wickets for 28 runs from his four overs. Fahim Munshi also claimed 2-20 from three overs, while Yasin Bhuiyan picked up two wickets for 36 runs.

Chasing 166, Sonargaon came out with attacking intent and never allowed Scholars' bowlers to settle.

Habibur led the charge with a match-winning 52 off just 31 balls, smashing three fours and five sixes to put his side firmly on course for victory.

Although Alauddin Mona departed after making 30 off 26 balls, Sonargaon's momentum never slowed.

Tousif Hossain and AB Jibon then completed the job in style, adding an unbeaten 70-run stand to carry their side across the line in just 15.4 overs.

Tousif remained unbeaten on 42 off 21 balls, hitting four fours and three sixes, while Jibon struck an unbeaten 29 off 14 deliveries, featuring two fours and two sixes.

Sonargaon sealed the seven-wicket victory with 26 balls to spare, leaving the vocal Scholars supporters disappointed after they had filled the stands with colour and chants throughout the contest.

Habibur was named Player of the Match for his explosive 31-ball 52.

With the victory, Sonargaon University will take on University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh (ULAB) in the ABG University Cup final on Friday, 13 November.

ULAB had earlier secured their place in the final after defeating Fareast International University in the first semi-final.