Sylhet, December 26, 2025:

Najmul Hossain Shanto produced a memorable innings to headline the opening match of the Bangladesh Premier League as Rajshahi Warriors began their BPL 2026 campaign with a commanding win over Sylhet Titans at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium.

Batting second, Rajshahi Warriors were set a challenging target after Sylhet Titans put up a competitive total in their 20 overs. The pitch offered good value for shots, and the Titans' batters made the most of it with a steady flow of runs, keeping the contest finely balanced at the halfway stage.

The chase, however, quickly turned one-sided thanks to Najmul Hossain Shanto's masterclass at the top of the order. Shanto played with authority and composure, finding gaps with ease and clearing the ropes when required. He brought up his century in style, anchoring the innings from start to finish and ensuring there were no nervous moments for his side.

Supported well by his fellow batters, Shanto guided Rajshahi Warriors past the target with wickets in hand. His hundred not only sealed the result but also stood out as one of the finest individual performances in recent BPL opening matches.

Sylhet Titans struggled to make inroads during the chase, with their bowlers unable to break the key partnership or slow the scoring rate for long periods. Despite flashes of resistance in the field, the Warriors' batting depth and control proved decisive.

The emphatic victory gives Rajshahi Warriors an early boost in the BPL 2026 standings, while Sylhet Titans will look to regroup quickly ahead of their next fixture. With a century in the very first match, Najmul Hossain Shanto has already set the tone for what promises to be an exciting Bangladesh Premier League season.