Dubai: The first semi-final of the Jan & Bros Bhatkal Premier League (BPL) T20 cricket tournament, held at the JMR Ground near Sharjah, saw Rising Star defeat DVS United, while in the second semi-final, Nawayat Cricket Dubai (NCD) Smashers triumphed over Abu Dhabi Riders to secure a place in the final. With this, the tournament is now in its concluding stages, and the final match is scheduled for January 26, with expectations of a thrilling contest and large crowd attendance.

First Semi-Final:
In the first semi-final played on Sunday, January 19, Rising Star won the toss and opted to bat, scoring 199 runs in 20 overs before being all out. Syed Afzan scored 56 runs off 48 balls, while opening batsman Imran Khateeb contributed 39 runs off 20 balls. Syed Murtaza Barmawar also played a quick cameo, scoring 24 runs off 9 balls.

In reply, DVS United managed only 159 runs, falling short by 42 runs, handing Rising Star the victory and a place in the final. Syed Murtaza Barmawar, who not only played a quick innings but also took two wickets, was named the Man of the Match.

Second Semi-Final:
In the second semi-final, played under floodlights and in chilly weather, NCD Smashers won the toss and invited Abu Dhabi Riders to bat first. The Riders managed to score 172 runs in 20 overs, with Abdul Fattah’s 48 runs off 26 balls being the highlight.

NCD Smashers chased down the target in 18 overs, scoring 177 runs for the loss of 6 wickets. Openers Sarfaraz Jukaku (45 off 18 balls) and Ismail Khan (30 runs) provided a solid start, while Khaleel Golte’s 27 runs and 4 wickets helped lead his team to victory. Golte was named the Man of the Match.

Final Preview:
The final of the tournament will be played on January 26 between the two strongest teams, NCD Smashers and Rising Star. A thrilling contest is expected, with many cricket fans anticipated to attend the final, following the large crowds in the semi-finals