The defending champions of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) stormed into the final of this year’s BPL beating Chittagong Kings by nine wickets in the qualifier one on Monday at Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium.

While Barishal marched to the final, Chittagong will now take on Khulna Tigers in the second qualifier on February 5 at the same venue.

The defending champions, now one step closer to retaining their title, was guided by Mohammad Ali’s five-wicket haul and a well-composed and unbeaten 82 of Towhid Hridoy.

Chittagong batted first in this and failed to lay a good foundation. They lost four wickets in just 34 runs inside the powerplay.

Four of their top five batters failed to reach a double-digit total. They collectively scored only 18 runs. Parvez Hossain Emon was the only top-order batter who reached a double-digit total scoring 36 runs.

Shamim Hossain was the lone bright spot, scoring an explosive 79 off 47 balls, featuring nine fours and four sixes.

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Pakistan bowler Mohammad Ali led the bowling attack of Barishal taking five wickets for just 24 runs, while Kyle Mayers bagged two wickets. Ebadot Hossain and Rishad Hossain took one wicket each.

Chittagong managed to post 149 for nine wickets. In reply, Barishal’s chase was clinical. Tamim Iqbal, their captain, scored 29 off 26 balls. But he failed to carry on a good note.

However, after his dismissal when Barishal was at 55 for one, Towhid and Dawid Malan formed a big partnership.

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They ended up winning the match and ensuring a place in the final for the second consecutive time.

In the final of February 7, Barishal will take on either of Khulna Tigers or Chittagong Kings who will compete in the second qualifier on February 5 at the same venue in Dhaka.