Dubai: The 12th edition of the Bhatkal Premier League (BPL) T20 cricket tournament got underway in Ajman, near Dubai, on Sunday, producing a historic moment in the opening match itself. Mohammed Ali Jushiddi of AZ Challengers became the first batter from Bhatkal to hit six sixes in a single over in a competitive tournament, marking a landmark achievement in the region’s cricketing history.
Jushiddi achieved the feat against Ras Bahar Challengers, dispatching all six deliveries of Furqan S.M.’s over for maximums. He went on to score a brisk 63 off just 19 balls, playing a decisive role in AZ Challengers’ narrow victory. Mohammed Ali Jushiddi, who represents the Labbaik Nawayat team in Bhatkal, later capped off a fine all-round performance by picking up two wickets and was named Man of the Match.
Earlier, Ras Bahar Challengers, batting first, posted a competitive total of 168 runs in their allotted 20 overs. Ismail Khan top-scored with a well-paced 62 off 33 balls, while Asjad Durga contributed 45 off 38 deliveries. Abdul Fatah added valuable runs with a quick 30 off 20 balls.
In reply, AZ Challengers were kept under pressure for much of the chase. However, Jushiddi’s aggressive approach at the top set the tone, while Abdul Baqi’s composed 56 proved crucial in guiding the team home. AZ Challengers eventually sealed the contest by one wicket in a closely fought finish.
In the second match of the day, Dr Haneef Warriors defeated Luxury Zone Titans by six wickets. Luxury Zone Titans were bowled out for 141 in 19.1 overs, with Muzammil (45), Nauman (29) and Sarfaraz (27) making notable contributions. Dr Haneef Warriors chased down the target comfortably, riding on Abdul Bari’s commanding 73 off 41 balls to reach the total in the 16th over.
The third match saw Rising Stars register a 39-run victory over Ruknuddin Brother chargers. Rising Stars put up an imposing 181 for nine in 20 overs, with Muhtasim scoring 51. In response, RK chargers were bowled out for 142, despite a fighting half-century from Mohammed Safwan.
In the fourth fixture, T2 Party Officials edged past DVS United by 13 runs. Batting first, T2 Party Officials were bowled out for 153 in 20 overs. DVS United, in reply, managed 140 for eight, falling short in the final overs.
Four more matches are scheduled for next Sunday. Rising Stars will take on DVS United, AZ Diamond Riders will face Luxury Zone Titans, RK Chargers will play T2 Party Officials, while Rasbahar Challengers will meet Dr Haneef Warriors. Organisers expect another competitive day of cricket following the high-intensity opening round.
The Bhatkal Premier League (BPL) is organised annually to bring together young cricketers from Bhatkal and neighbouring areas residing across the UAE, providing them with a common platform to showcase their talent and strengthen community engagement through sport. The opening ceremony was attended by BPL chairman Yassir Kashimji, commissioner Taha Muallim, patron Mohammed Ghouse Khalifa, along with office-bearers including Afaq Naite, Imran Khateeb, Abdul Sattar Lanka, Shariyar Khateeb and Jailani Mohtisham.