Chattogram Royals made a clear statement in their opening match of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) season.

They cruised to a 65-run victory over Noakhali Express at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium on Thursday night.

Batting first after winning the toss, Chattogram posted a competitive 174 for six, built around a composed innings from Mirza Baig.

The right-hand batter anchored the innings with 80 off 69 balls, striking seven fours and two sixes, and held the Royals together after early wickets.

Mohammad Naim fell cheaply, but Baig found support from Mahfijul Islam and Mahmudul Hasan Joy, who kept the scoreboard moving through the middle overs.

Captain Mahedi Hasan provided late momentum with a brisk 26 off 13 balls, lifting Chattogram past the 170 marks despite regular breakthroughs from Noakhali’s bowlers.

Noakhali’s chase never gained traction.

They lost three wickets inside the powerplay and were under constant pressure against a disciplined Chattogram attack.

Maaz Sadaqat offered brief resistance with 38 off 27 balls, while Haider Ali added 28, but partnerships were short-lived.

Mahedi Hasan led from the front with the ball, taking two wickets for 17 runs, while Shoriful Islam and Mukidul Islam struck at key moments. Tanvir Islam’s three-wicket spell further dismantled the chase as Noakhali collapsed to 109 all out in 16.5 overs.