Comilla clinch third BPL title

It was the closest of finishes in the end and Comilla Victorians won by a solitary run to claim their third title.

Shykat Ali scored a blistering half-century while Chris Gayle played the knock of a senior batter to put Barishal in control of the chase. But both batters were dismissed along with captain Shakib Al Hasan and despite the best efforts of the tailenders, Comilla managed to win. Tanvir Islam was the pick of the bowlers for Comilla.

Earlier, Comilla Victorians have posted a total of 151/9 in 20 overs. It is far less than what it looked like when Sunil Narine got off to an electrifying start. A middle order collapse nullified that as Fortune Barishal came right back in the match. The West Indian hit 5 boundaries and 5 sixes in his 23-ball knock of 57 runs.

Moeen Ali played a sensible knock and was involved in an important partnership with Abu Hider, which took the team past the 150-run mark after captain Imrul Kayes had decided to bat first. Mujeeb ur Rahman picked up two wickets for Fortune Barishal while captain Shakib al Hasan gave the team a good start by sending Liton Das early. Dwayne Bravo has also picked up a wicket for Barishal.

Fortune Barishal have been the most consistent team of the season en route to the final, having lost only two games so far. Comilla Victorians, the other team in the final, have been a formidable unit so far and will fancy their chances in the title clash. Shakib Al Hasan is the captain of Fortune Barishal while Imrul Kayes captains Comilla Victorians.