Mominul Haque hit 92 and powered Abahani Limited to a 80-run victory over Brothers Union in the Dhaka Premier Division Cricket League at Savar. Meanwhile, Prime Bank Cricket Club suffered a shocking collapse against Gazi Group Cricketers, managing only 89 in their chase of 184 and falling to a 94-run defeat. Abahani posted a strong total of 310 for 8 in 50 overs, built around Mominul's 92 off 74 balls. His innings laced with seven fours and four sixes was the backbone for Abahani’s effort. He found solid support from Mohammad Mithun, who batted during the middle overs with 71. Despite a shaky start where they lost three wickets for just 53 runs, Abahani recovered well, thanks to a 143-run stand between Mominul and Mithun. Mahfuzur Rahman Rabby added a quick 28 off 28 balls in the lower order to push the score past 300. Al Amin Hossain took two for 41 for Brothers. Chasing 311, Brothers Union never looked settled despite a fighting 84 from skipper Myshukur Rahaman. The top order crumbled, losing four wickets inside 28 overs for just 106 runs. Mizanur Rahman tried to hold things together with a 45-run knock, but the required run rate kept climbing. Abahani’s disciplined bowling attack kept things tight. Mosaddek Hossain was particularly effective, taking 2 for 12 in his seven overs, while young spinner SM Meherob also picked up two wickets. Brothers Union managed 230 for 7 in their 50 overs, falling well short of the target. At another venue in Savar, Gazi Group Cricketers registered a 94-run win over Prime Bank, thanks to an all-round show from Abu Hasim. Batting first, Gazi Group struggled initially but managed to put up 183, thanks to a 48 from captain Anamul Haque and a 35 from Aminul Islam. Prime Bank’s bowlers, led by Arafat Sunny (3 for 22) and Nahidul Islam (3 for 46), had kept the opposition in check, but their batting lineup completely fell apart. In the chase, Prime Bank suffered a horror start, losing their first wicket on the very first ball of the innings. The collapse continued as wickets tumbled, with none of the batters finding their rhythm. The team was eventually bowled out for just 89 in 23.2 overs. Abu Hasim, who was named Player of the Match, starred with 3 for 12 and also took two catches.

An all-round performance from Mehidy Hasan Miraz helped Mohammedan Sporting Club secure a big 94-run win over Legends of Rupganj in the Dhaka Premier Division Cricket League at Mirpur.   Miraz, who was named Player of the Match, contributed 25 runs with the bat before delivering a decisive spell of 4 for 38, dismantling Rupganj’s batting lineup as they folded for just 159 in response to Mohammedan’s 253 for 9.   Towhid Hriody was the highest run-getter for Mohammedan after being put to bat first. The right-handed batter hit three fours and two sixes. Contributions from Mahidul Islam Ankon (42) and Rony Talukdar (36) provided stability, but the side struggled for acceleration in the middle overs. Shoriful Islam was the standout bowler for Rupganj, claiming 4 for 54, while Tanzim Hasan Sakib chipped in with 2 for 70. For Rupganj, Shoriful Islam was the best bowler taking four for 54 runs, while Tanzim Hasan Sakib took two for 70.  While chasing 254, Rupganj lost wickets at regular intervals. Taskin Ahmed removed Soumya Sarkar for a duck. Mehidy took double wickets in quick succession, removing Tanzid Ha/ssksan, and Afif Hossain to leave Rupganj struggling.  Despite some resistance from Mahedi Hasan, who top-scored with 43 off 49 balls, the rest of the batting lineup failed to build partnerships. Taskin (3 for 33) and Mohammad Saifuddin (2 for 15) provided excellent support as Mohammedan wrapped up the win inside 38 overs.

Fast bowler Mark Wood is set to miss England’s highly anticipated Test series against India this summer following knee surgery. The 35-year-old pacer suffered his latest setback last month during England’s disappointing Champions Trophy campaign in Pakistan. Returning from an elbow stress injury, Wood experienced discomfort during the loss to Afghanistan. Despite receiving treatment, he continued to bowl in visible pain, prompting concerns that he had worsened an ongoing issue. The England and Wales Cricket Board later confirmed the injury had persisted for over a year. Wood’s eighth career operation revealed significant ligament damage in his left knee, ruling him out for at least four months. Teammates pay tribute as Mahmudullah retires from international cricket Although Wood is targeting a return by late July, the final match of England’s five-Test series against India begins on July 31 at The Oval, making his participation highly unlikely. He will also miss six white-ball matches against the West Indies and a one-off Test against Zimbabwe in May. “I’m gutted to be out for so long after playing for England across all formats since the start of last year,” Wood said. “But I’m confident I’ll be back at full strength now that my knee has been properly addressed.” Former Australian cricketer Stuart MacGill convicted in cocaine supply case Renowned for his express pace, reaching speeds of up to 97 mph (157 kph), Wood is considered an invaluable asset for England. His absence comes in a crucial year as the team looks to rebuild its struggling limited-overs side, challenge India, and reclaim the Ashes in Australia. Source: With input from news agency  

Gulshan Cricket Club managed a six-wicket victory over Rupganj Tigers Cricket Club in the Dhaka Premier Division Cricket League at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur on Thursday. Gulshan Cricket Club batted after winning the toss and scored a moderate 228 runs for 9 wickets in the stipulated 50 overs, with opener Amit Majumder contributing the match-highest 88 runs off 108 balls. Asaduzzaman Payel grabbed four Rupganj wickets for 53 runs in his 10 overs and was adjudged the player of the match, while Nihaduzzaman also took three for 45 runs. Teammates pay tribute as Mahmudullah retires from international cricket Chasing a target of 229 runs, Gulshan Cricket Club scored 232 runs for the loss of four wickets in 46.5 overs to win the match convincingly. Opener Zawad Abrar (67), one down Khalid Hasan (43), and another opener cum captain Azizul Hakim (40) were the notable scorers for Gulshan CC. Mahmudul Hasan claimed three Gulshan CC wickets for 47 runs. In the day’s other match, Gazi Group Cricketers outplayed Shinepukur Cricket Club by eight wickets at BKSP ground-3 in Savar on Thursday. Sent into bat first, Shinepukur CC were all out for 161 runs in 45.2 overs with lower order Zubaer Hossain scoring the match-highest 46 runs off 59 deliveries, hitting three fours and two sixes. BCB pays tribute to Mahmudullah Riyad’s illustrious career Shamim Mia and Tofeal Ahmed captured three wickets each, giving away 22 and 24 runs, respectively. Later, Shamim Mia was adjudged the player of the match. In reply, Gazi Group Cricketers easily reached their target, scoring the match-winner 162 runs for the loss of two wickets in just 17.5 overs, featuring 92 runs in the opening stand. National coloured opener cum team captain Anamul Haque contributed the match-highest 52 runs off just 27 deliveries, featuring eight fours and two sixes, while another opener, Sadikur Rahman, scored 50 runs off 31 balls with eight fours and one six. Al Fahad and Rafiuzzaman Rafi took one wicket each, conceding 37 and 42 runs, respectively. In the day’s other match, Agrani Bank CC beat Shiekh Jamal Dhanmondi Club by five wickets. Batting first, Sheikh Jamal DC were all out cheaply for 115 runs in 33.5 overs. In reply, the bankers,team scored 120 runs for five wickets in 38.5 overs.

Mahmudullah Riyad’s retirement from international cricket has drawn emotional tributes from his long-time teammates, who reflected on his contribution to Bangladesh cricket. Former captain Mashrafe Bin Mortaza, who led Mahmudullah for most of his career, shared a heartfelt message on social media, recalling their journey together and the milestones Mahmudullah achieved. “Congratulations on a great international career, Riyad,” Mashrafe wrote. “The numbers beside your name are just statistics, but to us, you are much bigger than that. We know how important you were to the team and how deeply you committed yourself to it.” Mahmudullah Riyad announces retirement from int’l cricket Mashrafe reminisced about Mahmudullah’s iconic centuries in Adelaide and Cardiff, particularly his historic ton in the 2015 World Cup, the first by a Bangladeshi in the tournament. “No one can take away your achievement of being Bangladesh’s first centurion in a World Cup. I hope many from our country will follow your example and surpass your record of four ICC event centuries. You have shown how to step up on the biggest stage, and generations will learn from you.” Mahmudullah opts out as BCB’s new contract announced Tamim Iqbal, another of Mahmudullah’s long-time teammates, described him as one of the pillars of Bangladesh cricket. “You have been an inspiration both on and off the field. I will cherish the memories we shared in the dressing room. Thank you for your contribution to the country’s cricket, and best wishes for the days ahead,” Tamim wrote. Shakib Al Hasan echoed similar sentiments, calling it a privilege to play alongside Mahmudullah. “You led by example, both on and off the field. Your dedication, resilience, and love for the game and the country have made the nation indebted to you,” Shakib wrote. “May Allah bless you and guide you on your new journey.” Mushfiqur Rahim, another close teammate of Mahmudullah, expressed his admiration for the veteran all-rounder. “It has truly been an honor to share the field with you all these years. Thank you for your guidance and the countless memories we’ve made together. I am incredibly proud of all you’ve achieved for the nation,” Mushfiqur said. Mahmudullah’s departure marks the end of an era in Bangladesh cricket. While his absence will be deeply felt, his legacy as one of the country’s most dependable performers will continue to inspire future generations.  

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has expressed its gratitude to Mahmudullah Riyad for his contributions to the national team, following his retirement from international cricket on Wednesday. Mahmudullah, one of Bangladesh’s most dependable cricketers, ended an 18-year career, during which he played 430 international matches across formats, scoring 11,047 runs and taking 166 wickets. He also holds the record for hitting the most centuries (4) by a Bangladeshi batter in ICC events and ranks among the country’s top run-scorers in ODIs and T20Is. BCB President Faruque Ahmed acknowledged Mahmudullah’s impact on Bangladesh cricket, describing him as a pillar of strength for the team for nearly two decades. “This is a sombre moment for Bangladesh cricket,” Faruque said in a statement. “Mahmudullah’s consistency and ability to perform under pressure made him an invaluable asset. His dedication and achievements will serve as a benchmark for future generations.” The allrounder also led the national team in six Test matches and 43 T20 internationals. Mahmudullah opts out as BCB’s new contract announced His standout performances include back-to-back centuries in the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup, which played a key role in Bangladesh’s historic quarterfinal run. The announcement of Mahmudullah’s retirement came days after Mushfiuqr Rahim, another Bangladesh stalwart, announced his retirement from ODIs. Despite retiring from international cricket, Mahmudullah will continue playing in the domestic circuit

Former Australian cricketer Stuart MacGill has been found guilty of involvement in the supply of cocaine in Sydney. MacGill, 54, who played 44 test matches for Australia as a leg-spinner and claimed 208 wickets, was acquitted of knowingly participating in the distribution of a large commercial quantity of an illegal drug. However, a jury found him guilty of being involved in the supply of a prohibited substance. Despite pleading not guilty, MacGill is set to appear in court for sentencing on May 9. The case stemmed from an introduction he made in April 2021 between a cocaine dealer and another individual. On Thursday, the New South Wales District Court jury heard that while MacGill’s role was limited to this introduction, the dealer was also implicated in two other alleged drug transactions. According to the Australian Associated Press, the jury was informed that a deal worth 330,000 Australian dollars ($210,000) was arranged between the dealer, identified in court as ‘Person A,’ and Marino Sotiropoulos, the brother of MacGill’s partner. The jury also learned that the former cricketer was a frequent cocaine user and had been purchasing the drug from the dealer for several years. MacGill previously made headlines in 2021 when he was allegedly kidnapped, assaulted, and threatened at gunpoint before being released. New South Wales police later arrested and charged four men in connection with the incident, during which MacGill was extensively interviewed. MacGill’s international career, spanning from 1988 to 2008, was often overshadowed by legendary Australian leg-spinner Shane Warne, who ranks second among the highest wicket-takers in Test cricket history. Source: With input from agency

Bangladesh all-rounder Mahmudullah Riyad announced his retirement from international cricket on Wednesday. "I have decided to retire from international cricket. All praises only for the Almighty Allah," Riyad posted on his verified Facebook account on Wednesday evening. "I would like to thank all of my teammates, coaches & specially my fans who have always supported me," he said. Over the years, Riyad's consistent performances and clutch play had not only won matches for Bangladesh but had also cemented his status as a beloved figure among supporters. His gratitude extends beyond the field, embracing every individual who contributed to his success. Mahmudullah opts out as BCB’s new contract announced In a message filled with emotion, Riyad offered special thanks to those closest to him. He acknowledged his parents, in-laws—with a particular mention of his father-in-law—and most notably his brother, Emdad Ullah, who has been his coach and mentor since childhood. "My brother Emdad Ullah has been there for me constantly, guiding me like a true mentor," Riyad said highlighting the crucial role of family support in his illustrious career. Additionally, he expressed his deep appreciation for his wife and children, describing them as his unwavering support system through thick and thin. Riyad concluded his announcement with a simple, yet profound farewell: "PEACE........... Alhamdulillah. Best wishes to my team & Bangladesh cricket."

The Dhaka Premier Division Cricket League (DPL) saw good performances from Legends of Rupganj, Abahani Limited, and Mohammedan Sporting Club as they secured convincing wins in their respective matches on Tuesday. Saif Hassan Stars as Legends of Rupganj Thrash Prime Bank Legends of Rupganj registered an eight-wicket victory over Prime Bank Cricket Club, chasing down 152 in just 23.2 overs at the Bangladesh Krira Shikkha Protisthan (BKSP) Ground in Savar.   Abahani, Mohammedan suffer defeats in Dhaka League Off-spinner Saif Hassan was the standout performer, taking 4 for 37 to dismantle Prime Bank’s batting lineup. Only Mohammad Naim (81 off 83) provided resistance, but lacked support from the other end as Prime Bank folded for 152 in 29.5 overs.  In response, Tanzid Hasan Tamim (68 off 49) and Soumya Sarkar (50* off 40) ensured a comfortable chase, sealing the win with 160 balls to spare. Saif, who also contributed 16 runs, was named Player of the Match. Mahfuzur’s Five-Wicket Haul Powers Abahani to Easy Win A five-wicket haul from Mahfuzur Rahman Rabby (5 for 18) led Abahani Limited to a crushing eight-wicket win over Partex Sporting Club at Mirpur’s Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium. Partex struggled from the start, getting bowled out for 100 in 33.1 overs, with Joyraz Sheik (36) and Sabbir Rahman (23) being the only batters to reach double figures. Apart from Mahfuzur, Rakibul Hasan and Mosaddek Hossain picked up two wickets each. Litton Das to play for Gulshan Cricket Club in DPL Chasing a modest target, Parvez Hossain Emon (55 off 50) and Mosaddek Hossain (37* off 27) guided Abahani home in just 14.3 overs. Tamim’s Century Guides Mohammedan to Comfortable Victory An unbeaten 105 off 96 balls from Tamim Iqbal powered Mohammedan Sporting Club to a nine-wicket win over Brothers Union at BKSP. Batting first, Brothers were bowled out for 187 in 48.4 overs, with Imtiaz Hossain (43) and Aich Mollah (32) offering some resistance. Taijul Islam (4 for 31) was the pick of the bowlers, while Abu Hider and Mehidy Hasan Miraz chipped in with crucial wickets. Chasing 188, Tamim led from the front, hitting nine fours and four sixes, while Mahidul Islam Ankon remained unbeaten on 75 off 96 as Mohammedan reached the target in 32.5 overs.

Australia and England will mark the 150th anniversary of Test cricket with a historic day-night match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in 2027, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has revealed. According to a statement from Cricket Australia, the pink-ball Test will be played from March 11-15, 2027, making it the first time Australia’s men’s team will play a day-night Test at the iconic venue, the ICC website reports. The MCG holds special significance in cricket history, having hosted the first-ever Test match between the two nations in 1877. To celebrate the centenary of that game, Australia and England played a Centenary Test at the same venue in 1977, with Australia winning by 45 runs— the same margin as the original Test match. A second centenary Test was held in 1980 at Lord’s to commemorate the first Test played in England in 1880. India wins ICC Champions Trophy for the third time The upcoming 150th-anniversary Test will be a grand occasion, reflecting both the sport’s rich history and its modern evolution. “The 150th Anniversary Test at the MCG will be one of the great cricket events, and playing under lights will be a fantastic way to celebrate both our game’s rich heritage and Test cricket’s modern evolution,” said Todd Greenberg, CEO of Cricket Australia. “It will also help ensure more people are able to attend and watch what will be a fantastic occasion,” he added. Earlier this year, Australia’s women’s team played the first-ever day-night Test at the MCG, also against England, as part of the Women’s Ashes. Greenberg also recalled the Centenary Test’s memorable moments, including David Hookes’ five consecutive boundaries off Tony Greig, Rick McCosker batting with a broken jaw, and Derek Randall’s defiant century. “I’m sure the 150th anniversary Test will create its own lifelong memories,” he said.