German Hockey Coach in Town

Wednesday, February 18, 2009

German hockey coach in town:

Sports Reporter

German hockey coach Peter Gerhard Rach arrived Dhaka yesterday to discuss with Bangladesh Hockey Federation (BHF) officials over his possible appointment as the head coach of the national team.

BHF will oversee Rach's skill and experience and work out the financial details before considering his appointment as national hockey coach.

During his three days stay Rach will work with the Bangladesh hockey players who have been undergoing training for the South Asian Games.

Asian Hockey Federation development officer Tayeb Akram, who took the responsibility of finding a coach for Bangladesh, sent the German coach for the development of Bangladesh hockey.

Rach began his career as hockey coach for the German Junior side (14-18 years) in 1972 and then coached different clubs teams. He also acted as coach for club level hockey.

The 60-year old German coached the Indian hockey team for one year in 2004 and under his guidance India finished seventh in Olympic hockey and finished fourth in the Champions Trophy in Lahore in the same year.

"I think Bangladesh should be in a place where Japan, China and Malaysia stay," said Rach, who is currently living in Dubai, while talking to the reporters yesterday.

Dhanmondi's second win- Div-i Cricket

Wednesday, February 18, 2009

Div-i Cricket
Dhanmondi's second win

Sports Reporter

Ali Arman Raju's unbeaten 74 of 123 balls saw Dhanmondi score their second consecutive win against Badda by 7 wickets at the City Club Ground yesterday in the Dhaka First Division Cricket League.

Dhanmondi reached their target of 164 in the 45th over and lost just three wickets. Shamim also contributed to his team's victory by picking up 3 wickets for 27 runs.

At the Dhaka University Ground, Lalmatia won their first match in the league beating Indira Road by three wickets. Batting first, Indira were all out for 157 with Asif and Tipu both picking up three wickets apiece. Lalmatia then reached home with 23 balls to spare with Moshiur and Saiket scoring 39 and 37 respectively.

Motijheel T&T scored their first win in the league beating Khelaghar by 19 runs at the Dhanmondi Cricket Stadium. Going on to bat first, Motijheel were all out for 182 runs as Khelaghar's Zakir picked up a 4-wicket haul conceding 52 runs in his 10 overs. The game finished in the 46th over when Shahid and Ataur picked up six wickets among themselves to bowl out Khelaghar for 163.

Bangladesh emerge AHF Cup champions-2008

Bangladesh emerge AHF Cup championsSun, Jun 22nd, 2008 10:41 pm BD ST

Bangladesh became unbeaten champions in the Asian Hockey Federation (AHF) Cup with a massive 6-1 win over Oman in the final Sunday in Singapore. It was the first-ever title for the Bangladesh national hockey team outside home as they finished top in the last edition of the AHF Cup in Dhaka beating Oman 5-3 in tiebreaker in the final. Bangladesh along with three other semifinalists have already qualified for the finals of the Asia Cup to join six automatic qualifiers – Japan, South Korea, India, Pakistan, China and Malaysia. The meet is likely to be held in September, 2009, but the venue is yet to be finalised. Bangladesh, who made only draw against hosts Singapore in the group-stage matches, got off to a fine start dominating the first half 3-1. Later in the second half, they added another three goals to end their AHF Cup campaign well. Defender Mamunur Rahman Chayan struck two goals while Jahidul Islam Rajon, Krishna Kumar, Rimon Kumar Ghosh and Sheikh Mohammad Nannu netted one goal apiece for the champions, according to a message from Bangladesh Hockey Federation

Hockey and Others: Local Snippets

Wednesday, February 18, 2009

Sports News for Local Snippets:

The six-team Shaheed Smriti Hockey Tournament, organized by Bangladesh Hockey Federation, begins today at the Maulana Bhasani National Hockey Stadium in Dhaka.

In the inaugural match, Bangladesh Army will meet Dilkusha SC at 2:30 pm while Usha KC will play BKSP in the day's other match at 3:30 pm.

Secretary of the National Sports Council Irtiza Ahmed will inaugurate the 11-day meet in the afternoon.

The other two teams of the six-team fray are Bangladesh Navy and Bangladesh Air Force. The six teams will initially compete on league basis. Later, two top teams will play the final on February 28 also at the same venue.

INT'L TENNIS
The lone Bangladeshi player Mufazzal Hossain made an early exit from the boys singles of the Dhaka Bank 23rd International Junior Tennis Championship losing to top seed Sumeet Shinde of India 1-6, 4-6 in the 2nd round match at the Ramna National tennis Complex.

Starlet Sian Bayliss of Great Britain beat Huang Hui of Taipei 7-6, 7-5 to qualify for the next round.

A total of 13 matches were played in the boys singles round and 15 in the girls singles round.

The pre-quarterfinal matches of both the boys' and girls' singles will be held today.

DIV III FOOTBALL
Rampura KC beat Rahmatganj SC 3-0 in the Citycell Third Division Football League at the Bir Shreshtha Shaheed Sepoy Mohammad Mostafa Stadium at Kamalapur.

In another match Tongi KC got the better of BKSP by 2-0 at the same ground.

SCHOOL CRICKET
Sahebulla High School defeated Kanchipara Academy High School by 3 runs in the Standard Chartered National School Cricket Competition at the Gaibandha Stadium.

In today's match, Gaibandha Govt. High School will face Piyerapur High School at the same venue.

WOMEN CHESS
Three players shared the lead in the points table after the third round games in the Begum Laila Alam 3rd Open FIDE Rating Women Chess Tournament at the chess federation hall room. The three players are IWM Hamid Hamid of Titas Club, WFM Samima Akter Liza and Sharmin Sultana Shirin of 12 Soft Solution Ltd.

The fourth round games will start today from 3.30 pm at the same venue.

Russel Finish Third

Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Citycell B League
Russel finish third

Sports Reporter

Sheikh Russel Krira Chakra blanked Farashganj Sporting Club 2-0 to finish third in the Citycell B. League at the Bangabandhu National Stadium yesterday.

Rajon Miah broke the deadlock after a drab first half with a spectacular volley and set up the second goal for veteran striker Alfaz Ahmed as Russel retained the third spot by improving their tally to 41 points.

The country's new powerhouse Russel finished the league three points behind runners-up Mohammedan and nine points adrift of Abahani, who retained the title in style by winning their last game against Rahmatganj 6-3 at the same venue on Monday.

Back in the day's match, it was a boring first half with both teams showing signs tiredness on the final day of a long and gruelling league that started on September 9 last year. The game however sprang to life when Rajon let loose a sublime volley off a Sameer Omari cross.

It took another five minutes for Rajon to provide a defence-slicing through pass to Alfaz who sealed the match with a scorching grounder. Standing at the wrong age of his luminous carrier, Alfaz with his 17th league goal this season showed that he might have lost some of his pace but his clinical finishing touches are as good as in his heydays.

This goal also put Alfaz tied in second place with Abahani's Emeka Christian in the leading scorer's list that Mohammedan's Alamu Bukola leads with 18 goals.

Farashganj finished sixth as the old city club remained at 26 points.

In the last game of the competition Brothers Union secured a 2-1 victory over Chittagong Mohammedan at the same venue.

Rony Islam put Brothers ahead in the 60th minute but Chittagong Mohammedan bounced back through a 71st minute strike from Guinea striker Rapheal Sagno.

Munna however confirmed the Gopibagh outfit's full points when he struck the match-winner in the 76th minute.

Brothers improved their tally to 37 points while Chittagong Mohammedan stayed at 30 points after playing 20 matches.

Sri Lanka Lift Tri-Series Title

Wednesday, February 18, 2009

Grameenphone Women Cricket TRI - NATION SERIES
SL lift tri-series title

The victorious Sri Lanka women's team are all smiles as they celebrate winning the Grameenphone tri-nation tournament after beating Pakistan in the final at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium yesterday.

Sri Lanka emerged champions in the Grameenphone Women's tri-nation tournament after beating Pakistan by six wickets in the final at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur yesterday.

It was a morale boosting triumph for the Lankans ahead of next month's women's World Cup in Australia.

Electing to bowl first, the Sri Lanka team rode on the efforts of Chamari Polgampola and captain Sashikala Siriwardene's to bundle Pakistan out for a paltry 123. Hiruka Fernando then top scored with 44 as the islanders cantered home for the loss of four wickets with nearly 15 overs to spare.

The sparse crowd in the stadium were disappointed as Pakistan struggled throughout.

They were four down for 37 as opener Nain Abidi failed to carry on her good form into the final, contributing just 13, while skipper Urooj Mumtaz Khan perished on 10. Javeria Khan top-scored with 23 while Sana Mir and Almas Akram both scored 16 to carry Pakistan past the 100 run mark.

The Pakistani's were pegged back throughout as the Sri Lankan's bowled a nagging line and length. Polgampola picked up her first two wickets off successive balls - Qanita Jalil and Bismah Maroof falling with just 14 on the board. She then returned to wrap up the innings with Asmavia Iqbal's wicket for 6.

In reply, Fernando scored an unbeaten 44 and added 29 with Polgampola early in the Lankan innings to see them home in relative comfort.

Pakistan captain Urooj Mumtaz took two wickets in the space of three balls but Polgampola ensured that Sri Lanka reached the target without further hiccoughs.

Contributing 19 with the bat in an opening stand of 49, she was adjudged both player-of-the-match and of the series for her nine-wicket haul in the tournament.

The emphatic win saw Sri Lanka, who would have been unbeaten champions of the tournament had they not lost to Bangladesh, justify their standing as favourites in the match.

"Although we lost to Bangladesh, we were confident in the morning that we will win today's match because our batsmen are in form. At no stage did I think that we could lose the match, even when we lost two quick wickets because there are 7 all-rounders in the team," said the victorious Sashikala.

The Sri Lankan captain also added that she expected more crowds in Dhaka but appreciated the other venues again, quoting them as a good environment to play cricket in.

The visitors return home today where they have less than a fortnight to prepare for the World Cup. Both Sri Lanka and Pakistan are in the same pool in next month's showpiece tournament where they will meet on March 9, at the Manuka Oval in Canberra.

BRIEF SCORE
PAKISTAN: 123 all out (Javeria 23, Sana Mir 16, Almas Akram 16, extras 14; Polgampola 3-16, Sashikala 3-24)

SRI LANKA: 124-4 (Fernando 44*, De Silva 27, De Alwis 12*, extras 20; Urooj 2-16)

Result: Sri Lanka won by six wickets

Cricket Coaching School upsets Gazi Tank

Cricket Coaching School upsets Gazi Tank:

16-February-2009

An unconquered 156 runs by Shahbaz Butt enabled newcomers Cricket Coaching School (CCS) to earn a creditable 53- run win over Gazi Tank Cricketers in a match of the Premier Division Cricket League at the Narayanganj Osmani Stadium in Fatullah today (Sunday). This was the 2nd victory for CCS in their third league match while the second defeat for the star-studded Gazi Tank Cricketers, led by national skipper Mohammad Ashraful, in their third league engagement. Sent into bat first, Cricket Coaching School posted huge 285 runs for 4 wickets in stipulated 50 overs with Pakistani Shahbaz Butt contributing unbeaten 156 runs. Butt, whose 162-ball innings featured 17 fours and two sixes, was adjudged man of the match. Shuvagato Hom (39), opener Uttam Sarker (37) and Nazimuddin Ripon (33) were the other major contributors for CCS. Rabiul Islam, Nayeem Islam and Enamul Haq Junior took one wicket apiece. In reply, Gazi Tank Cricketers were all out for 232 for 9 in 50 overs with Pravanjan Mallick scoring 55 runs off 78 balls that included five boundaries. Opener Mohammad Mithun (45), Anwar Hossain (41), Nayeem Islam not out (36) and captain Mohammad Ashraful (21) were the other notable scorers for Gazi Tank Cricketers. Elias Sunny claimed three wickets for 37 runs while Bishwanath Halder and Nizamuddin Ripon took two wickets each for 39 and 46 runs respectively. In the day’s another premier league match at BKSP ground in Savar, Surjo Tarun Club tasted the 2nd victory in their third league match beating all- losers City Club by 91 runs. Put into bat first, Surjo Tarun Club piled up 241 for 9 in 50 overs. One down Hannan Sarker scored 70 runs off 95 balls with four fours and a six to be adjudged man of the match. Sandeep Sharma (33), Junaid Siddiqui (31), Sabbir Rahman (27), Rajin Saleh (23) and Anisur Rahman (21) were the other Surjo Tarun batsmen who reached double figures. Jafar Quraishi captured three wickets for 43 runs while Shafaq al Zabir and Raisul Islam took two wickets each for 28 and 50 runs respectively. In reply, City Club were dismissed for 150 runs in 41.4 overs with opener Russell Al Mamun scoring 42 runs off 53 balls that included five boundaries. Sabbir Rahman, Sanjamul Islam and Saqlain Sajib picked up two wickets each for 16, 25 and 29 runs respectively. In the day’s other match at Sher-e- Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur, sent into bat first, Old DOHS SC score 205 runs for all in 49.5 overs with Anhoor Newaj and Mehrab Hossain Jr making 51 and 50 runs respectively. Niamul Haque, Mominul Haque and Rifatuzzaman grabbed two wickets each for 23, 36 and 42 runs respectively. In reply, BKSP were bundled out BKSP for 178 in 48.5 overs with Mominul Haque scoring 37 and Saikat Ali 30 runs. Abul Hossain claimed three wickets for 29 runs. Source: UNB, Dhaka

Tapu Banned for Misconduct

Tuesday, February 17, 2009

Tapu banned

Sports Reporter

Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has imposed a three-match ban and a fine of Tk 20,000 on Bangladesh Boys Club official Ziaur Rahman Tapu.

Tapu was disciplined for misconduct during a First Division Cricket League match between Bangladesh Boys and Jatrabari KC at the City Club ground on February 15.

Match referee Hemayet Ahmed Siddiky in his report concluded that Tapu used abusive language and charged one of the umpires by running on to the field during over 42.5 of the Bangladesh Boys innings which falls under misconduct -- "Discipline on the Field' (section 19.3 of the League's Playing Condition).

Razzak off to Australia

Tuesday, February 17, 2009

Razzak off to Australia:

Spinner Abdur Razzak was scheduled to leave Dhaka last night for reassessment of his bowling action in Australia.

Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) applied to the International Cricket Council (ICC) for the reassessment of the left-arm spinner's action after its bowling review group expressed satisfaction over Razzak's progress following a rehabilitation programme.

The spinner, who will be accompanied by national coach Jamie Siddons, will head to Brisbane first where he will work with specialists at Cricket Australia's Centre of Excellence to fine tune his bowling action.

The bowler will then appear for the reassessment tests at the Australian Institute of Sports (AIS) in Canberra on February 23, 2009. Member of the ICC Panel of Human Movement Specialists at the AIS Biomechanics Department Dr. Marc Portus will conduct the assessment.

The ICC in November last year suspended Razzak from bowling in international cricket pending fresh assessment after independent analysis of his bowling action revealed that his action exceeded the 15-degree level of tolerance permitted under regulations.

Women's soccer final round from tomorrow

Tuesday, February 17, 2009

The final round of the Citycell National Women's Football Championship kicks off tomorrow at the Bangabandhu National Stadium.

Eight teams split into two groups will play each other with the top two advancing to the semifinals, to be held on February 26.

Group A comprises Bangladesh Ansar, Satkhira, Rajshahi and Narayanganj while Jessore, Bangladesh VDP, Rangamati and Khulna play in the Group B.

Earlier a total of 25 district teams, divided into four zones, played in the preliminary round from where zonal champions and runners-up qualified for the finals.

"To make the championship competitive, we have kept two zonal champions and as many zonal runners-up in a group and the other group follows the same format," said Sirajul Islam Bachchu, chairman of the Bangladesh Football Committee (BFF) Women's Committee, at a press conference yesterday.

The champions will get Tk 40,000 while runners-up receive Tk 20,000. The losing semifinalists will also be awarded Tk 5,000 each.

State Minister for Youth and Sports Ahad Ali Sarker will declare the meet open with Bangladesh Ansar taking on Rajshahi in the first match.

The BFF also plans to hold the National Women's Super Championship with the top four teams in the national women's championship fighting it out.

To promote the women's game at district level, the BFF is also considering holding the Super Championship matches on home-and-away basis and arranging a few matches at neutral venues.

Div-1 Cricket Ruselt

Tuesday, February 17, 2009

Ton, tie & low scores mark the day:

Rupali Bank and Baridhara Dazzlers featured in the first tied match of the Dhaka First Division Cricket League yesterday in the City Club Ground. The bankers posted 237 runs on the board losing nine wickets, which the Dazzlers exactly matched in their share of 50 overs.

Rupali's Raihan Mallik picked up four wickets for 45 runs in his ten overs but failed to shelter a win for his team.

At the Dhanmondi Cricket Stadium, Eskaton secured a surprise victory over strong horses Kalabagan beating them by 20 runs. In what was a low scoring affair altogether, Eskaton were all out for 89 in the 33rd over, but later bowled brilliantly to bundle out Kalabagan for just 69 runs.

Dhaka Wanderers notched up their first win of the tournament when they defeated Brothers Union by seven wickets at the Dhaka University Ground. Brothers batted first and with the help of Rony's 82 finished with 204 runs losing nine wickets. Wanderers reached the winning target without a hitch as Rubel slammed 120 from 115 balls, hitting 15 boundaries and one six. The winners lost just three wickets and made use of 39 overs.

Shaib Akhtar Hopes to Return for Bangladesh Series

Tuesday, February 17, 2009

SHOAIB AKHTAR, Afp, Karachi.

Injury-prone Pakistan paceman Shoaib Akhtar said Monday he hoped to recover from a knee injury and return to action in time for next month's tour of Bangladesh.

The 33-year-old fast bowler was ruled out of Pakistan's two-Test series against Sri Lanka, starting later this week, due to the injury.

Initial reports suggested he would need an operation but Akhtar expressed hope that the injury would heal with rest.

"Doctors have advised me that the blood and pieces of bones in my knee could be removed through injections and there won't be any need for an operation," Akhtar told AFP.

Akhtar had both knees operated on in early 2006. It was feared that he would miss most of this year if he went back under the knife. But Akhtar said he had been reassured about his condition after a medical update.

"I sent the MRI reports to Australia and England, and the advice was not to have an operation, so I hope to be back in action by next month," said Akhtar, who was dropped from the third one-day international against Sri Lanka last month.

Akhtar managed just one wicket for 88 runs in the first two matches.

The controversial paceman played just three Twenty20 matches last year due to injuries and a ban on discipline charges.

He returned to the team for Pakistan's three-match one-day series against the West Indies in November last year.

But he sat out the entire series, played in Abu Dhabi, after he hurt his hamstring on the eve of the first match.

Pakistan are due to play two Twenty20 fixtures and five one-day matches in Bangladesh in March.

Grameenphone Womens Cricket Tri-Nations Final Today

Tuesday, February 17, 2009

Current Result:

• PAK Women Vs SL WomanPAK Women 123/10 Over - 47.1; Javeria 23; C. Polagampala 3/16SL Woman Over - PAK Woman won the toss elected to bat. (Grameenphone Womens Cricket Tri-Nations Series; Venue: SBNS; Date; 17th Feb-2009) Final

Big finale today
Experience meets enthusiasm

A DRESS REHEARSAL: Sri Lanka captain Sashikala Siriwardene (R) shakes hands with her Pakistan counterpart Urooj Mumtaz Khan at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur yesterday ahead of today's Grameenphone Tri-Nation Women's Cricket Tournament final.Photo: STARAmeeruddin Zain

Experience will be the only differentiating factor when Pakistan meets Sri Lanka in the final of the GrameenPhone tri-nation Women's Cricket Tournament at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur today.

The islanders have a lot more international matches under their belt and go into the final with a clear psychological advantage having beaten Pakistan in both their previous games in the tournament.

It is a fact not lost on Pakis-tan captain Urooj Mumtaz Khan, who maintains that while both sides are evenly matched in skill levels, experience is the vital difference. But the Pakistan skipper is quick to state that in one-day cricket, anything can happen.

"Two teams can be different on paper but when you walk into a match, your days performance decides the outcome."

Reflecting on the two losses against Sri Lanka Urooj seemed quite unnerved. The right-hander has made her maiden international fifty against the islanders and their strengths in all departments of the game are well known to Pakistan, as they have played each other quite frequently in recent times.

Star off-spinner Javeria Khan concurs with her captain's view saying that the experience garnered from the tournament can help them pull off an upset in the final.

"Cricket is a funny game and anything can happen on a match day, a game can go either side so we will go into the final with the confidence that we have derived from our games so far, hence that gives us some self-assurance," said Javeria.

Meanwhile, Sri Lanka skipper Sashikala Siriwardene regards the final as a completely fresh match, although she agrees with their role as favourites.

"It's a good thing that we are going into the match as favourites, but it will be a new match and more importantly our batsmen, are going into the game with a lot of confidence."

Both camps were fulsome in their praise of the tournament organizers and sponsors for providing excellent service and were particularly appreciative of the crowd that had turned up to cheer them on -- and thus provided support to women's cricket.

On the state of Bangladesh cricket, both teams were optimistic. Urooj said that the Bangladesh team were a good bowling and fielding unit, and picked out left-armer Champa Chakma for particular praise.

Siriwardene was slightly more guarded in her praise, saying that although the hosts had come a long way, their batting deficiencies were still quite evident. She went on to congratulate Bangladesh for pulling up an upset win over her charges.

Abahani finish in style

Tuesday, February 17, 2009

Abahani finish in style:
Thanks for Champion Abahani Citicell B league Winner

Abahani midfielder Mamun performs a back flip after scoring his side's opening goal against Rahmatganj Muslim Friends Society in their last Citycell B. League match at the Bangabandhu National Stadium yesterday. Abahani celebrated their title triumph with a 6-3 thrashing of the old town outfit.

Abahani rounded off a championship-winning season in style by thumping Rahmatganj 6-3 in their final Citycell B. League game of the season at the Bangabandhu National Stadium yesterday.

Nigerian striker Emeka Christian struck an imperious hattrick as the Sky Blues set the record straight by thrashing a side who had beaten them 2-1 in the opening game of the season.

The result was only icing on the cake, and the poor turnout only validated that fact, as Abahani had already confirmed their second successive league title with a 2-1 win at Sheikh Russel in the previous matchday.

Away at Chittagong, league top-scorer Alamu Bukola struck twice as another popular Dhaka outfit Mohammedan finished runners-up after a 3-1 victory over Chittagong Abahani.

At the Bangabandhu National Stadium, with the title already in the bag Amalesh Sen's charges struck up a brand of exciting football with Emily, Zahed Parvez and Mamun also getting on the scoresheet alongside Emeka.

Rahmatganj replied through two Francis penalties while Hirok netted the other.

The big Nigerian, Emeka, a constant thorn in the side of other defences this year, finished with 17 goals, just one shy of Bukola who scored 18 for the season.

The only downside for the Sky Blues was that they celebrated the end of a successful campaign infront of a small crowd.

However, coach Amalesh Sen could not stop smiling.

"Our football standard has declined in the last few years and the country didn't see any action in the last season. So it's time to bring back the old crowd and I am hopeful," said Amalesh who had a poor start in the season when his side lost the curtain raiser Federation Cup.

"I think it's (the championship) totally a combined effort but if you want to single out any player, he is none other than Yussif (Samad)," said the veteran coach, praising his Ghanaian center-back.

In the end, it was Abahani's strength in depth that paid dividends as they managed to cover for lengthy absences of inspirational captain Arif Khan Joy, defenders Nazrul and Sujon and attacker Ujjal.

Abahani won the title with a six-point margin and their good management of resources contributed to that fact. They started the season in poor fashion but managed to come out on top in all the major battles of the season, disposing of Mohammedan, Russel and Brothers. In addition they also strung together a record nine-match winning run.

Amalesh also observed that his players have a better chemistry than the other teams.

"They have had very good understanding because they trained together for long," said Amalesh.

Abahani had continued their camp last season despite there were no action on the field.

Away at the MA Aziz Stadium, Dhaka Mohammedan had needed only one point to confirm the runners-up gong but came up all three when Bukola scored twice in the 3rd and 14th minutes and Hazem netted one in the 51st minute.

Mithun pulled back one for the local Abahani in the 23rd minute from a penalty to finish with 23 points.

In the day's other inconsequential match, Muktijoddha Sangsad finished with a 2-1 victory over Khulna Abahani at the Khulna Stadium.

Moni and Kanchan scored for the struggling Muktijoddha, who were lackluster in this season while Bhasani netted the lone goal for the losers.

Bottom-side Khulna have five points and Muktijoddha finished with 13 points to be placed 10th in the eleven-team fray.

Bangladesh's maiden win against Srilanka

Grameenphone Women Cricket Tri-Nation Series

Bangladesh's maiden win against Srilanka



Sri Lanka batsman Suvini de Alwis fails to make her ground as Bangladesh wicketkeeper Mina Khatun (R) acrobatically removes the stumps from a Panna Ghosh throw during their tri-nation match at the Bir Shreshtha Motiur Rahman Stadium in Khulna yesterday. Photo: Courtesy
Sports ReporterBangladesh handed Sri Lanka a stunning six-wicket defeat in the GrameenPhone Tri-Nation Women's Cricket Tournament yesterday at the Shaheed Flight Lieutenant Motiur Rahman Stadium in Khulna.

This victory gave thousands a chance to smile after an otherwise unsuccessful tri-series so far and sets up a virtual semifinal clash against Pakistan on Saturday. Sri Lanka, who have led the way in the tournament with a perfect record so far, lost the toss and were put into bat first.

It proved to be a disaster for the islanders and they were shot out for only 67, a target which the winners chased down with six wickets in hand and 111 balls to spare.

Bangladesh's success was based on a four-pronged bowling attack, with everyone picking up wickets. Panna Ghosh struck the first blow after she trapped Chamari Polgampola lbw in the fifth over, and Shamima Akhter bowled Hiruka Fernando to reduce Sri Lanka to 25 for 2.

The Lankans also proceeded to self-capitulate as two middle-order batsmen, including captain Sashikala Siriwardene, fell victim to run-outs through sharp fielding by the Bangladesh team. The tail then put only meek resistance in the face of disciplined bowling as four of the last five batsmen fell without troubling the scorers.

Bangladesh too began their chase badly when Shathira Jakir was lbw to Polgampola for a 13-ball duck but steady contributions from Ayesha Akhter, who top scored with 24, Ghosh and captain Salma Khatun secured the joyous and at the same time a much-needed victory.

Sri Lanka have already qualified for the final of the tournament and will be joined by the winner of tomorrow's contest between Pakistan and the hosts, both of whom are on five points each.

BRIEF SCORE:
SRI LANKA: 67 all out (D.De Silva 26, Galagedara 15, Rasangika 17, extras 5; Shamima 3-23, Mondol 2-17, Salma Khatun 2-8)
BANGLADESH: 71-4 in 31.3 overs (Ayesha 24, Panna 16, Salma Khatun 22*, extras 9; Siriwardene 2-16)

Bangladesh lose

Women Tri-nation Cricket Series:
Pak and Crilanka moves to the Final

BAN Women Vs PAK Women
BAN Women 94/10 Over - 34.4; Ayesha 21, Salma 18, Sania 2/12, Nadia 3/23;
PAK Women 96/1 Over - 20.1; Quanita 24, Bismah 41*
Pak won by 9 wkts(Grameenphone Womens Cricket Tri-Nations Series; Toss: PAK ; Venue: BSSMRS; Date; 14th Feb-2009) Match-6

Russel stay in hunt

Alfaz Ahmed missed a penalty but scored from the other to keep Sheikh Russel's slim hopes alive to finish runners-up in the Citycell B. League with a 1-0 win over Rahmatganj yesterday in the last match of the penultimate round.

The missed penalty meant that the veteran striker wasted a chance to overtake Mohammedan's Nigerian striker Alamu Bukola in the race for the top scorer as both came level on 16 goals.

The victory, Russel's 11th in 19 games, ensured their third place but to bag the second spot, they must now keep their fingers crossed for Mohammedan to lose to Chittagong Abahani in the final round.

If second-placed Mohammedan, who have a three-point advantage, lose in Chittagong and Russel, who are on 38 points, can win their final game against Farashganj, both teams will finish on equal points and a play-off will be needed to separate the two sides.

Rahmatganj, who held Russel 2-2 in the first leg, began brightly at the Bangabandhu National Stadium but paid for squandering opportunities.

Ugandan striker Idris Kasirye, Nigerian Nche Francis and Ripon all fluffed their scoring chances while Moroccan striker Samir Omari spoiled Russel's only real chance in the first half.

Russel, who had all three foreigners back in the side after missing Omari through suspension in their 2-1 loss to champions Abahani in the previous round, geared up after the break and finally went ahead in the 59th minute from a spotkick.

Impressive right-winger Mobarak was fouled by Kabir inside area and Alfaz sent Rahmatganj goalkeeper Mohammed Ali the wrong way to separate the two sides.

Four minutes later, the old-Dhaka outfit conceded the second penalty of the match when Ashraful brought down Omari inside the box.

Alfaz hit the mark from the 12-yard spot but referee Tayeb Hasan ordered a re-kick as Rahmatganj players rushed into their area before the national striker had struck the ball. Alfaz, who was replaced in the 71st minute, failed in his second effort as Ali made a diving save on the penalty to keep Rahmatganj in the game.

The rest of the match was full of attacks and counter attacks with Rahmatganj having the edge but their hard work went down the drains as Wajed Gazi's defence finally held on to the slim lead.

Rahmatganj, who play Abahani in the final round, remained seventh and confirmed the position with 21 points.

TEAMS
RUSSEL: Azam, Aminul, Hasan, Zahirul (Rakibul), Rajan, Mobarak, Marco Maric, Moujahid, Monwar, Alfaz (Morshed) and Omari.
RAHMATGANJ: Ali, Jahangir, Ashraf (Rimon), Shipon, Babu, Felix, Kabir, Hanif, Francis, Ripon (Hirok) and Idris.

Trio starts with wins

Div I Cricket


Brothers, Eskaton and Indira Road began their campaigns with a victory each in the Dhaka First Division Cricket League yesterday.

Citycell B League- Brothers' 9th victory

Friday, February 13, 2009

Reporter

Goals in the second half ensured the fourth place for Brothers Union in the Citycell B. League when the giants from Gopibagh blanked Farashganj 2-0 yesterday.

Wasim Iqbal's side also kept their slim hopes for a third place finish alive with their ninth victory in 19 games, climbing to 34 points, just one behind Sheikh Russel who have two matches in hand.

After a first-half deadlock at the Bangabandhu National Stadium, Atiqur Rahman Mishu fired in a long-range volley in the 49th minute while Zahid Hossain sealed the victory with a solo effort five minutes from time.

Farashganj also confirmed the sixth place as they remained on 26 points, four adrift of Chittagong Mohammedan with one round to go in the competition.

Both sides fought equally in the first half but the riversiders came close to score after 15 minutes. But captain Kabir Hossain's shot from a goalmouth melee came off the Brothers crosspiece.

Midfielder Liton's curling shots from setpieces kept the Farashganj backline under constant threat and one from the left flank gave Shakil a good opportunity, only to see his powerful header going straight to goalkeeper Al Amin in the 27th minute.

Just before the short whistle, Zia made a similar save at the Oranges goal when Farashganj's Nigerian defender glanced a header on a corner by Ugandan Dominic.

Four minutes after resumption, Al Amin misread what looked like an ordinary volley by Mishu to concede the lead. The Brothers fullback drove the ball with his left-foot from 30 yards and a bounce in front of Al Amin sent the goalkeeper the wrong way and he had no chance to stop the ball going into his right hand post.

Farashganj, who crashed 4-0 to Brothers in the first-leg, came back strongly when Nigerian striker Kalu Johnson escaped down the right wing and chipped the ball with his right foot in the 54th minute. The ball dipped but Zia palmed it away from his line.

Four minutes later, Liton's freekick from the right went out harmlessly after kissing the top of the crossbar as the riversiders stayed alive for a fightback. They got a golden chance in the 76th minute when Enamul got beyond the opposition defence. However, Enamul -- Farashganj's top scorer with 11 goals -- delayed inside the area as Mishu came from behind to shield the shot that went wide.

It was all over when Zahid sped into the penalty area and clinically finished, putting the ball beyond outrushing custodian Al Amin for his sixth league goal.

Both teams end their campaign on February 17 -- the final day of the league -- with Farashganj facing Sheikh Russel in Dhaka and Brothers playing away against Chittagong Mohammedan.

TEAMS
BROTHERS: Zia, Aurup, Ashraful, Akramuzzaman Liton, Mishu, Zahid, Liton (Roni), Matiur Munna, Shakil, Tapu (Parvez) and Henry.
FARASHGANJ: Al Amin, Ramjan, Emeka, Mamun Mia, Rajib, Kabir, Khokon, Dominic, Faisal (Rintu), Enamul (Mamun) and Johnson.
Referee: Shahidul Islam.

Sri Lanka in final- GP Tri-nations Cup

Friday, February 13, 2009

Sri Lanka scored a emphatic victory over Pakistan when they beat them by 115 runs in the GrameenPhone Tri-Nation Women's Cricket Tournament yesterday at the Shaheed Flight Lieutenant Motiur Rahman Stadium in Khulna.

The winners, who have now won all their games, are through to the final on February 12 in Dhaka while Pakistan must secure a win against Bangladesh on Saturday to confirm their place.

The match was curtailed to a 34 over-a-side contest and Pakistan were all smiles after winning the toss and putting the opposition in. Their decision paid off rich dividends as Sri Lanka found themselves in a spot of bother at 15-3 in just the fourth over. But, skipper Sashikala Siriwardene played a captain's knock of 66 runs in 72 balls, with ten fours and a six.

At 145-7, Sri Lanka did not look like they will reach 200 but a late partnership between E.Kaushaly(26) and Manodarat(25) saw the islanders finish at 207-9. Opening bowler Asmavia Iqbal and the in-form Javeria Khan took two wickets apiece.

Pakistan made a good start with a 35 run opening stand but when wickets started tumbling one after the other, they soon found themselves at 49-4. Urooj Mumtaz Khan, played a subdued innings of 17 from 57 balls to bring some solace to the innings but in the end Pakistan were bowled out for 97.

Bowlers Alwis and Fernando claimed three wickets each to seal Sri Lanka's place in the final at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur.

Hosts Bangladesh will take on the Lankans today at the same venue.

BRIEF SCORE
SRI LANKA: 207-9 in 34 overs (Siriwardene 66, extras 29; Asmavia 2-23, Javeria 2-43)
PAKISTAN: 92 in 33.3 overs (Urooj 17, extras 17; Fernando 3-14, Alwis 3-10)

Super Cup from March 3, 2009

Friday, February 13, 2009

Bangladesh Football Federa-tion (BFF) has decided to start its mega event Super Cup on February 3 instead 6.

The BFF high-ups finalised the decision in an informal meeting yesterday.

It was learned that Edson 'Dido' Silva, the national team's Brazilian coach, wants his squad in camp as soon as possible for preparation of the AFC Challenge Cup.

Also, the BFF think-tank considered Pakistan cricket team's tour of Bangladesh next month, which could distract the crowd from the Tk two-crore event, expected to be sponsored by BFF's 'partner in progress' Citycell.

The BFF wants to bring the good old crowd back to the grounds after the ongoing B. League virtually failed to do so.

The format of the tournament has yet to be finalised but BFF officials confirmed that the winners will get Tk one crore, the runners-up Tk 25 lakh and the four semifinals Tk 5 lakh each.

The remaining teams of the eight-team meet will also get appearance money and the BFF is contemplating ringing foreign referees for the semifinals and the final to avoid any type of controversy.

DOHS, BKSP win thrillers in Premier Division Cricket League

Friday, February 13, 2009

Indian batsman Sandeep Sharma punches the ball off the back foot while playing for Surjo Torun in a Premier Division Cricket League match against Old DOHS at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur yesterday. Photo: STARSports

Old DOHS maintained their impressive run in the Premier Cricket League when they snatched a five-run win against Surjo Torun in the second round yesterday while BKSP and Cricket Coaching School (CCS) both recorded their first wins in the competition.

Although spring had started smiling weeks ago, a sudden rain and chill on the final day of winter shortened all three matches.

Like the DOHS-Torun match, BKSP also stole a last-over thriller by one-wicket against Victoria but newcomers CCS cruised to an eight-wicket win over all-losers City Club.

DOHS-SURJO TORUN
Surjo Torun captain Khaled Mashud asked the opposition to bat in a 37-overs match at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur, where fireworks from Imtiaz Hossain led DOHS to 183 for nine in the stipulated overs, enough for their second successive win.

The DOHS opener smashed five boundaries and three sixes in his 63-ball 58 while Mahmudullah Riyad notched a quickfire 35 off 33 balls with four fours.

Rajin Saleh was the pick of the Surjo Torun attack with his part-time leg-breaks, taking 4-28 while Delwar Hossain topped and tailed to grab three for 37.

Despite a rollicking start, Surjo Torun lost their way towards the end, managing 178-7 for their first defeat. Indian batsman Sandeep Sharma, who hit half-dozen boundaries in his 58 off 88 balls, put on 45 with fellow opener Junaid Siddique (23 off 25 balls) in less than eight overs.

Hannan Sarkar (24 off 23), Rajin (24 off 36) and Anisur Rahman (22 off 25) all got fine starts but Sharma's dismissal after reaching 121-2 in the middle of the 27th over seemed to bring bad luck.

After Sharma holed out to Fazle Rabbi at long-on off Mehrab Hossain's left-arm spin and Rajin was run out, Abul Bashar came back for a fiery second spell to swing the match DOHS's way.

The pacer, adjudged man-of-the-match, sent back Anisur, Delwar Hossain and Mashud in quick succession to put pressure on the Surjo Torun tail, which -- needing 20 from the last two overs -- managed just 15 runs.

VICTORIA-BKSP
In a 32-overs affair at the Fatullah Stadium, the youngsters of BKSP recovered from early and late collapses to score 173-9 with four deliveries to spare after Victoria had put on 168-9 on board.

It was Tanvir Haider whose heroics salvaged BKSP from a precarious 99-7. The number seven batter who shared two significant partnerships, 47 for the eighth wicket and 27 in 14 deliveries for the unbroken last wicket, cracked five fours and two sixes in an explosive 55 not out off 41 balls.

Earlier, Arman Hossain top scored 42 for the inserted Victoria, who failed to bank on a 72-run opening stand between Arman and Amit Majumder (31).

CCS-CITY CLUB
At BKSP, Pakistani opener Shahbaz Butt hammered an unbeaten 79 off 81 balls with nine fours and one six to help CCS race to 144-2 in reply to City Club's 141 all out. The match was shortened to 40-overs a-side.

SCORES IN BRIEF
Old DOHS: 183-9 in 37 overs (Imtiaz 58, Wasim 18, Riyad 35, Ejaj 27, Delwar 3-37, Rajin 4-28)
SURJO TORUN: 178-8 in 37 overs (Sharma 58, Junaid 23, Hannan 23, Rajin 24, Anisur 22, Mashud 11, Hasan 3-36, Mehrab 2-33)
Result: Old DOHS won by five runs.

VICTORIA: 168-9 in 32 overs (Amit 31, Arman 42, Ashraful 28, Sharifullah 10, Tapash 20*, Rifatuzzaman 2-37, Furkan 2-38, Mominul 2-24)
BKSP: 173-9 in 31.2 overs (Saikat 13, Mominul 28, Zabid 12, Furkan 20, Haider 55*, Riaz 21, Aslam 2-19, Sharifullah 3-46)
Result: BKSP won by one wicket.

CITY CLUB: 141 all out in 36.5 overs 9Rasel 37, Raisul 31, Saif 24, Mayshekur 13, Monwar 3-41, Elias 2-21)
CCS: 144-2 in 26.3 overs (Uttam 13, Shahbaz 79*, Elias 32, Shuvagata 13*, Shafaq 1-38, Lalmon 1-20)
Result: CCS won by eight wickets.

Local Football Result

11 February 2009, Wednesday, 07:05 pm

Citycell B League 2008:
Bukola scored 4 goals against Khulna Abahani today in BNS11 Feb 09

Dhaka Mohammedan 4 VS Khulna Abahani 0 Scorers:
Bukola 8', 24'(Penalty), 26' & 87' (Hattrick)

Next Match (12 Feb 09)Brothers Union VS Farashganj, BNS, 4:30pm

Citycell 3rd Division Football League (11-02-09)
1st Mach: BKSP 1 (Akbar Ali Kanon 65') VS Swadhinota KS
02nd Match: Onirban Sangha 0 VS Kosaituli 0

Lankan eves evaporate Bangladesh's tri-nation hope

09-February-2009

Sri Lanka almost assured their final berth in the GrameenPhone tri-nation women cricket tournament beating hosts Bangladesh by 76 runs at the Shaheed Chandu Stadium (SCS) in Bogra Monday.It was the second consecutive win for the Islanders in the ongoing meet after a three-wicket victory over Pakistan Saturday while Bangladesh were almost out from the race with two successive defeats following their seven-wicket loss against Pakistan.Favoured by coin, Sri Lankan batted first and scored moderate 211 runs for 9 in allocated 50 overs.Lower order batsman E Kaushalya hit unbeaten 60 runs off 43 deliveries featuring seven fours and one six and was adjudged player of the match.Besides, opener C Polgampola (31), De Silva (30), D Manodora (20), SP Weerakkody (18) and I Galagedera (11) were the notable Lankan players reaching the double figures while another 29 runs came from extras.Sohely Akhter of Bangladesh grabbed three wickets for 23 runs while Champa Chakma and Salma Khatoon took two wickets each giving away 37 and 53 runs respectively.Chasing a target of 212 to win, Bangladesh were all out for 135 runs in 47.5 overs with opener Aysha Akhter making 33 off 90 balls, including three boundaries.Besides, Panna Ghosh scored 20 runs off 32 deliveries hitting three fours, tail- ender Tithi Rani Das made not out 16 off just eleven balls while another 21 runs from extras.C Polgampala captured three wickets for 26 runs while E Kaushalya, SP Weerakkody, De Alwis and C Wickramasinghe took one wicket each.Source:UNB

Citycell B League

Thursday, February 12, 2009

Another Bukola treble:

Mohammedan Sporting Club's prolific Nigerian striker Bukola (L) leaves a Khulna Abahani player in his wake during their Citycell B.League match at the Bangabandhu National Stadium yesterday. Bukola struck four goals in his side's 4-0 win against the Khulna lightweights. Photo: STARSports Reporter

Alamu Bukola slammed his second hattrick of the league as Mohammedan Sporting Club brightened their chances of finishing runners-up in the Citycell B. League with an emphatic 4-0 win over Khulna Abahani in their second leg tie at the Bangabandhu National Stadium yesterday.

The Nigerian striker, who struck his first treble against Muktijoddha Sangsad, scored three goals in the first-half and added another after the breather to become top scorer in the league with 16 goals by surpassing Sheikh Russel's Alfaz Ahmed's 15.

Having Abahani already confirmed the title with a match in hand, the only interest left in the league is the runners-up race between Mohammedan and Sheikh Russel and yesterday's result put the popular Black and Whites in an advantageous position.

The winners improved their tally to 41 points from 19 outings, six points ahead of Sheikh Russel, who have two matches in hand.

Mohammedan will need only one point when they visit to Chittagong to play their last match against Chittagong Abahani on February 16 to become runners-up for the second successive season. If they fail to get the point from their last game in the port city and Sheikh Russel win their remaining two games against Rahmatganj and Farashganj, then both sides will have equal points and have to lock horns for a play-off to decide the runners-up.

On the other hand the sixth defeat ensured Khulna Abahani's demotion from the top flight as the Sky Blues from the southern city earned only five points from 19 matches, five points behind 10th-placed struggling Muktijoddha Sangsad.

Back to the day's match, Bukola put Mohammedan ahead only in the eighth minute when he placed an Enamul Haq Sharif pass home inside the danger zone.

Then referee Abdul Hannan Miron awarded Mohammedan a spot kick following Khulna Abahani defender Ranjit Kumar Paul's handling a shot from opponent Hazem Khaled Mahmood.

The lanky Bukola made no mistake to convert the penalty to double the margin in the 24th minute. Just after two minutes, Sharif whipped a well-judged cross from the left to Bukola, who rose maximum to head the cross home, completing his hattrick to join Alfaz on 15 goals each.

Bukola extended the margin by scoring his fourth goal three minutes from time.

It was the league's eighth hattrick after Alfaz, Arambagh's Nicodemus Ananda, Abahani's Zahid Hasan Emily, Rahmatganj's Idris Kasiry, Farahganj's Anamul Haq and Chittagong Mohammedan's Mithun Chowdhury.

TEAMS
MOHAMMEDAN: Himel, Saikat, Munna, Dami, Sharif, Arman, Maruf (Faisal), Hazem (Pappu), Bukola, Komol and Ripon.
KHULNA ABAHANI: Saifullah, Nahid, Kochi, Shahinoor, Ranjit, Ashiqul, Kamruzzaman, Tarikul, Monjurul, Hakim and Milton (Hadiuzzaman).
Referee: Abdul Hannan Miron.

Gazi sink Abahani and Other's Result

Thursday, February 12, 2009

Bowlers rule the roost:

Bangladesh and Gazi Tank captain Mohammad Ashraful plays a bowler's back drive against his national team deputy and Abahani skipper Mashrafe Bin Mortaza (R) during a Dhaka Premier Division Cricket League match at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur yesterday. Inset, Six Shooter Robiul: Gazi Tank young paceman Robiul Islam shows the ball with which he destroyed Abahani with a six-wicket burst at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium yesterday. Photo: STARSports Reporter

The first big match of the Premier Division Cricket League turned into a big disappointment when star-studded Gazi Tank thrashed defending champions Abahani by six wickets in a low-scoring match at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur yesterday.

A six-wicket burst by young paceman Robiul Islam made sure that national captain Mohammad Ashraful-led Gazi were set for another stroll in the park against Mashrafe Bin Mortaza's much vaunted sky blues.

The victory also completed a delightful double for newcomers Gazi after their eight-wicket triumph in the Twenty20 final against Abahani last week.

On a day when the bowlers dictated terms, national pacer Sajedul Islam took a five-for which included the league's first hattrick as Mohammedan cruised to a massive eight-wicket victory against Partex at the Fatullah Cricket Stadium after their disappointing tied game against Pegasus on Sunday.

Another Tigers paceman Mahbubul Alam hogged the spotlight at BKSP as Biman rode on the right-arm pacer's five wickets to score a six-wicket win over Young Pegasus. It was Biman's second successive win.

GAZI-ABAHANI

Although it was a face-off between the two most exciting exponents of the country's cricket Ashraful and Mashrafe, it was heart rendering to see the stands almost empty at Mirpur. If this was a disappointing sight then what took place in the middle was even more dismal.

It was an exhibition of poor cricket in the league's first big match mainly because of Abahani's reckless batting. Credits must go to young pacer Robiul who exploited his outswingers well to wrap up Abahani's innings for 105 runs in 24.3 overs.

"It's actually poor batting," reflected national team coach Jamie Siddons after witnessing the first-half of the game.

Like the previous game, Tamim Iqbal and Rony Talukdar got off to a confident start but the rot began once Tamim was trapped in front by Robiul, ending a 30-run opening stand. Tamim was unhappy with the decision and stood his ground for quite sometime before trudging back to the dressing room.

Rony, an aggressive opener who scored a century in the first match, was Robiul's second victim after top scoring for Abahani with 30 off 22 balls that featured five boundaries. After that wickets fell like ninepins with only number seven Rezaul Karim standing in the ruins with an unbeaten 21.

Abahani brought veteran Indian batsman Amol Muzumdar to strengthen the middle-order but the right-hander made a first-ball duck with national pacer Rubel Hossain having him trapped lbw.

Robiul finished with 6 for 37 runs while Enamul Haque took two wickets for 11 runs.

Abahani's poor fielding added more woes to their misery as Talha Jubair dropped both openers Imrul Kayes and Mohammad Mithun. Mashrafe finally removed Kayes with the scoreboard reading on 23 as Gazi's innings underwent a glitch when they lost three more wickets in the span of seven runs.

But Ashraful took the charge hitting eight dazzling boundaries during his unbeaten 28-ball 36 as Gazi reached their winning target losing four wickets in 22 overs, after a half an hour lunch break.

MOHAMMEDAN-PARTEX
The fate of the match was all but written on the wall in the very second over, when Sajedul Islam removed Wasiur Rahman, Mushfiqur Rahim and Tareq Ahmed in successive deliveries to strike the first hattrick of the league as Partex were reduced to 4 for 14 after they decided to bat first.

Partex failed to recover from the initial hiccup and were bundled out for 87 runs in 26.3 overs.

Sajedul claimed five wickets for 18 runs while Tareq Aziz Khan and left-arm spinner Sohrawordi Shuvo took two wickets each.

In reply, Mohammedan traversed on Nasiruddin Faruque's unbeaten 77-ball 45 to reach the target in 26.2 overs.

BIMAN-PEGASUS
Zahurul Islam struck an unbeaten 74 after Mahbubul's five-wicket haul as Biman earned a comfortable victory against Young Pegasus.

One-down Zahurul smashed seven fours and a six in his 103-ball knock while inform Shakib Al Hasan hit five fours during his 40-ball 41 as the last year's runner-up made 168 for 4 in reply to Pegasus's 166.

Earlier, Sri Lankan Ruvin Pieres scored 52 off 89 deliveries with the help of four boundaries and Mohammad Jubaer contributed 40 off 53 balls that contained two fours and a six as Pegasus recovered from 31 for three to make 166 runs.

Mahbubul captured five wickets conceding only 21 runs in 8.5 overs.

BRIEF SCORES
ABAHANI: 105 all out in 24.3 overs (Tamim 6, Rony 30, Sahagir 15, Nasir 0, Amol 0, Nadif 1, Rezaul 21 not out, Sunny 4, Mashrafe 9, Zia 0, Talha 7, extras 12; Robiul 6-37, Rubel 1-43, Enamul 2-11, Ashraful 1-8)
GAZI TANK: 106-4 in 22 overs (Kayes 14, Mithun 26, Anwar 8, Nayeem 1, Ashraful 36 not out, Pravanjan 11 not out, extras 10; Mashrafe 2-36, Zia 2-22)
Result: Gazi Tank won by six wickets.

PARTEX: 87 all out in 26.3 overs (Wasiur 10, Sazzadul 17, Nazmul 10, Azim 13, extras 22; Tareq 2-26, Sajedul 5-18, Shuvo 2-10, Pankaj 1-11)
MOHAMMEDAN: 89-2 in 26.2 overs (Shamsur 13, Nasiruddin 45, extras 4; Rashed 1-6, Rezaul 1-21)
Result: Mohammedan won by eight wickets.

PEGASUS: 166 all out in 47.5 overs (Rahat 15, Ruhul 11, Rovin 52, Bashar 11, Maruf 12, Jubaer 40, extras 10; Shahadat 1-25, Mahbubul 5-21, Neaz 1-38, Nabil 1-26)
BIMAN: 168-4 in 39.4 overs (Sadat 16, Zahurul 74 not out, Shakib 41, Rahul 14, extras 15; Rubayet 1-16, Zakaria 1-31, Ruhul 1-15, Nayeem 1-6)
Result: Biman won by six wickets.

Tri-nation moves to Khulna

Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Khulna

The women's cricket team of Bangladesh, Pakistan and Sri Lanka reached Khulna yesterday evening from Bogra to participate in the second round of matches of the GrameenPhone Tri-Nation Women's Cricket Tournament.

The two big guns Sri Lanka and Pakistan lock horns tomorrow at the Shaheed Flight Lieutenant Motiur Rahman Stadium at Mujgunni in Khulna City.

After tomorrow's match, Sri Lanka meet Bangladesh on February 13 and on the concluding day on February 14, Bangladesh will play against Pakistan.

Meanwhile, Shaheed Birshrestha Flight Lieutenant Motiur Rahman Stadium is fully geared up to host the three matches and the pitches along with the outfield have been prepared accordingly.

The Stadium at Mujgunni in Khulna City attained status as an international venue for cricket in 2006. Two ODIs and one 20-20 match were played here after attaining the mark.

Identical wins in Div.-3

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

Identical wins in Div 3:

Shantinagar and Mirpur XI recorded identical 1-0 wins in the Citycell 3rd Division Football League at the Birshreshtha Shaheed Mostafa Kamal Stadium in Kamalapur yesterday.

Aminul's 62nd minute strike gave Shantinagar full points against Lalbagh SC while Sujan scored Mirpur's match winner against Muslim Institute in the 43rd minute.

Khelaghar on form

Div-i Cricket:

Khelaghar continued their good form into the longer version of the game after winning the T20 title, when they beat Orient in the Dhaka First Division Cricket League at the Dhanmondi Cricket Stadium (DCS) yesterday.

Batting the entire fifty overs, Khelaghar fell four runs short off 200, losing nine wickets with Maksudul picking up 3-39. In reply, Orient were bowled out for 167 in the 46th over.

At the Dhaka University Ground, Azad won their first game against Agrani Bank by one wicket. It was a close encounter as Agrani Bank finished at 201-9 in the stipulated fifty overs, which was duly chased by Azad amidst a regular fall of wickets in the last over of the match.

Azad's Habib top scored with an unbeaten 61.

Prime Doleshwar also won their game against Motijheel by one wicket at the City Club Ground. Motijheel batted first and accumulated 193 runs losing all their batters, which was successfully chased by Prime by losing nine scalps in the last over of the match. Prime's Jihad scored a fine 82 of 114 balls to see his team clinch their first game.

BFF Calendar 2009

Too much rest for top footballers !

Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) kept its promise to keep the game on field for at least ten months every year but the partial domestic calendar (till December 2009) published for the season 2009-10 shows that the country's top footballers will get very little action in six months.

After the Super Cup, the three-week mega event which is expected to kick off March 6, the top booters will join national camp for preparation for next May's AFC Challenge Cup qualifiers in Dhaka.

Club commitment also ends in May after Abahani play the AFC President's Cup qualifiers also at home.

After just a handful of games in April and May, there would be no top-level domestic or international competitions in June-July when football goes indoors in shape of futsal (for Division 1 and II players only) due to the monsoon.

The 2009-10 season starts in October with the Federation Cup, which will be followed up by the third B. League in November.

BFF member and ex-general secretary Anwarul Hoque Helal, however, defended the schedule.

"We are going to give the footballers two months off: that would be June and July when the rains take control. With the transfer window opening in August, the teams will actually start preparation for the next season in the same month," said Helal yesterday.

"We think the players should be given at least two months to get fit again. So these two months are part of their active time," he opined.

The calendar's international part also did not include the proposed Bangladesh-Sri Lanka home and away football series, which was billed for next month.

"Yes, Sri Lanka were due to arrive here on March 15 to play two matches on March 17 and 19 after the Prime Minister's Cup in Nepal. But we cannot accommodate them at that time for the Super Cup," Helal informed.

"We have decided to cancel it and the Lankan federation will soon be informed of this. We don't know when we can plan the reciprocal tours because we both would be busy for the Challenge Cup.

"We have also decided to host an international tournament in November instead of December so the next B. League is not interrupted much. With the SAFF Championship scheduled for December, it would take more than four months to complete the B. League."

Helal informed that whether it would be a national or club competition depends on availability of the teams.

"We won't get the South Asians for the SAFF Championship. So it would be South East Asians or teams from the Asean, like Thailand, Malaysia, Myanmar, Hong Kong or Singapore. If we can get those teams, it would also be a good preparation for us ahead of the SAFF."

LOCAL SNIPPETS

The Sunnydale Mini Handball Tournament will start from today with 22 school teams split into 7 groups participating. Banani Bidya Niketan will play Rifles College at 3.45 pm in the opening encounter.

The tournament has been organised by Bangladesh Handball Federation and is sponsored by Sunnydale School.

Najrul Islam Mozumdar, Chairman, EXIM Bank will be present during the occasion as the chief guest.

DU SPORTS
Dhaka University Haji Mohammad Mohsin Hall celebrated their annual sports competition at the DU central playground yesterday.

An estimated 100 students participated in a total of 15 events, where Ibrahim Hossain, a Masters student from Department of Bengali and Saidul Islam from Information Science and Library Management became the joint champions.

Jahidul Islam Sheikh from Department of Public Administration became the runner up.

DU Vice Chancellor Arefin Siddique was present during the event as the chief guest.

Focus on Gazi, Abahani

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

The spotlight will be on the battle between defending champions Abahani and Gazi Tank when the second round of the Premier Division Cricket League starts today at the three different venues.

Mashrafe Bin Mortaza-led Abahani will definitely try to take revenge of their eight-wicket defeat to the Premiership newcomers in last week's Twenty20 semifinal when they lock horns with his national team boss Mohammad Ashraful'sl side at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur.

In recent times, the league has witnessed big match in the early stage as most of the newcomers came up with big names and Gazi Tank, following the footsteps of DOHS and Sonargaon Cricketers, roped in national skipper Ashraful, opener Imrul Kayes and paceman Rubel Hossain on their debut.

That was the reason Abahani considered it a vital match in their attempt to retain the title and have decided to bring in veteran Indian batsman Amol Muzumdar for this game.

The 34-year old right-hander Amol was expected to arrive in the capital last night to strengthen Abahani's middle order. The Dhanmondi-based club made a flying start by winning their first game against CCS at the same venue, thanks to a rare 200-run opening partnership by Tamim Iqbal and Rony Talukdar.

The team's think-tank, worried over their middle order batting, considered Amol for only one game as all-rounder Venugopal Rao -- who has played 16 one-day internationals for India -- will join the team for the rest of the matches.

The name of Amol Muzumdar is not new for ardent cricket followers in the country but one has to go thirteen years down the memory lane to recall a then promising Indian batsman. The Mumbai ace played just one match for Mohammedan against Biman in the 1994-95 Damal Smriti tournament where his match winning half-century on a very tricky pitch is still fresh in many minds.

Gazi have also hired little known Indian batsman Pravanjan Mullick who made a half-century in the first game against Biman but still, Ashraful's boys lost the game by five wickets.

"I think we have the strength to beat Abahani. Our main challenge would be to make an early breakthrough because Tamim (Iqbal) and Rony (Talukdar) are both dangerous batsmen," said national team and Gazi Tank captain Ashraful.

On the other hand, his national team deputy Mashrafe, now the central attraction in the cricket fraternity following his whopping 600,000 deal in the Indian Premier League (IPL), is looking forward to play a good match.

"I think Gazi Tank are a very good side and they beat us in the Twenty20 semifinal. We are looking forward to play a good match tomorrow. We need to play our natural game to continue the winning run," said the Bangladesh vice-captain.

Biman take on Young Pegasus at BKSP while Mohammedan face Partex at Fatullah in the day's other fixtures.

Bangladesh Krira Shikkha Protishthan-BKSP

Name of Organization : Bangladesh Krira Shikkha Protishthan - BKSP (Bangladesh Institute of Sports) Address : Zirani, Savar, Dhaka-1349, Bangladesh. Phone : 7701215, 7701216 Fax: 7701513 Establishment of BKSP : BKSP is a unique and only sports institute in Bangladesh. In 1974 it started its maiden journey as BIS (Bangladesh Institute of Sports). In 1976 the project of the Institute started and by 1977 BIS was declared as a Government Organization under the Ministry of Youth and Sports. Later, the nomenclature of BIS was modifed in Bengali as Bangladesh Krira Shikkha Protishthan (BKSP). In 1983, through an ordinance, BKSP was declared as an autonomous and statutory Organization under the Ministry of Youth and Sports. The Institute was formally declared open on 14th April 1986 by the then President of the Pepole's Republic of Bangladesh. General education from class IV to degree level is imparted to the students along with sports training. At present there are 500 students studying at BKSP Location : BKSP is located at the north of National Martyr Monument, Savar and Dhaka Export Processing Zone (DEPZ) covering an area of 104 acres of lush green land, at Zirani. The distance from the capital city Dhaka to the Institute is approximately 45 km. towards north. Aims and Objectives : With its first intake in 1986, BKSP started functioning as a residential Institute to achieve the following aims and objectives (as per the Ordinance) 01. To find out promising sports talents from among young boys and girls of the country and to provide adequate facilities and opportunities for their intensive training on scientific lines along with the scope of general education up to graduation level. 02. To provide training of prospective coaches, referees and umpires with a view to producing coaches, referees and umpires of higher caliber. 03. To raise the technical competence of existing coaches, referees and umpires. 04. To impart proper coaching to all national teams before their participation in international competitions. 05. To conduct certificate course for coaches, referees and umpires. 06. To serve as an information center for matter connected with sports and games. 07. To publish books, periodicals, bulletins and up-to-date information on games and sports. 08. To do such other acts and things as may be connected with or incidental to the carrying out of the functions of the institute for the purposes of this ordinance. Source: http://www.moysports.gov.bd/bksp.html

About Ministry of Youth and Sports

In December 1978 the Ministry of Youth Sports was created under a special gazette notification. In 1982, after the promulgation of the Martial Law, the Ministry of Youth & Sports was abolished and in its place the youth development Division was created under the Ministry of Labor and Manpower. in 1984 the component of Sports of the Ministry of Sports and Culture and the component of Youth Development Division the Ministry of Labor and Manpower were taken together to create a separate Ministry in the name of the Ministry of Youth and Sports (under its Schedule no. 1 ). The activities of this Ministry are run by the following attached Departments and Statutory Bodies: A. Attached Departments: Directorate of Youth Development Directorate of Sports B. Statutory Bodies: National Sports Council (NSC) Bangladesh Krira Shikkha Protisthan (BKSP) According to the Rules of Business (under its schedule no1) for various Ministries/Divisions, the following works were allocated to the Ministry of Youth and Sports: 01. All matters relating to youths -their welfare, training and prospects. 02. Organization and mobilization of the youths for voluntary Participation in the development activities of the country. 03. Coordination of youth services, liaison with concerned Ministries/Division. 04. Administration of grants-in-aid under specific projects. 05. Youth Awards. 06. Programs to encourage a sense of adventure, responsibility, confidence and achievement in youths. 07. Research and study on youths and youth development activities. 08. Promoting activities for creating employment of opportunities lies for the unemployed youths. 09. Promotion and development of games and sports. 10. National Sports Awards. 11. Aid from foreign and international bodies in the field of sports. 12. Grants-in-aid to sports organizations. 13. International organizations and other international programs in the fields of sports. 14. Price of performance: merit awards in sports. 15. Organization and participation in national and international games and athletics. 16. Development publication in the field of sports. 17. National bodies relating to sports. 18. Exchange of sports team with foreign countries. 19. Pension to sportsmen. 20. Secretariat administration including financial matters. 21 Administration and control subordinate offices organizations under this ministry. 22. Liaison with international organizations and matters relating to treaties and agreements with other countries rind would bodies relating to subjects allotted to this Ministry. 23. All laws on subjects allotted to this Ministry. 24. Inquiries and statistics on any of the subjects allotted to the Ministry. 25. Fees in respect of any of the subjects allotted to this Ministry except fees taken in courts. Approved organization & structure/manpower of the Ministry are given Below: Secretary Joint Secretary Deputy Secretary Deputy Chief Senior Assistant Secretary /Assistant Secretary Senior Assistant Chief Assistant Chief Accounts Officer 2nd Class Officer 3rd Class Employees 4th Class Employees

Sourc: http://www.moysports.gov.bd/ministry.html

National Sports Council (NSC)

The sporting arena of Bangladesh is vast and comprised of various government, national, regional and local organizations as well as voluntary associations and sporting clubs at different levels. Immediately after independence in 1971 there was felt need to severe with the past and to establish an apex body at the national level to co-ordinate the activities of the various sports organization. With this in view the Government by a Resolution of 7 February 1972 appointed a committee on Sports headed by the then Minister for Education and Culture to control, co-ordinate and manage sports and games activities of Bangladesh and also to recommend organizational, strategic and legal framework for all round healthy growth of sports and games in the country within a period of six months. Bangladesh Krira Niyantran Shangstha (BKNS) started functioning under the committee in 1972. Two years later BKNS was transformed into Bangladesh Sports Council by an Act of the Parliament. This Act, presently known as the National Sports Council Act, 1974, was amended in 1976, 1978, 1991 and lastly in 2003. The 1976 amendment changed the name of the organization as National Sports Control Board but the 1991 amendment reverted to the nomenclature of National Sports Council (NSC). As provided in the Act, the Council is a body corporate having perpetual succession and a common seal with power, among others, to acquire, hold, manage and dispose of property, both moveable and immovable, and shall by the said name sue and be sued. Source: http://www.moysports.gov.bd/national_soprts_council.html

Hall Sports Title

SN Hall sports title:

Nasreen clinches

Nasreen Islam, a third year student of Music and Dramatic Department annexed the individual championship trophy in the annual athletic meet of Shamsun Nahar Hall of Dhaka University at DU central playground on Monday. Asma Begum of Linguistic became runner-up. Dhaka University vice-chancellor Prof Dr AAMS Arefin Siddiqui inaugurated the athletic meet as chief guest. Later Pro vice-chancellor Prof Dr Harunur Rashid distributed prizes. Provost of Shamsun Nahar Hall Prof Dr AB Razia Akhtar Banu was also present on the occasion.

Grand Super Cup in Mar

BFF to start next year season in Oct

Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) finalised the calendar for 2009 with a new concept, as they planned to start the season from next year from October 1. In an emergency meeting of the BFF executives on Monday approved the calendar of 2009 and decided to begin their next season from October while it would start this season with the Super Cup tournament. The eight team Super Cup, a big budgeted grand tournament of the season, will be organised with the participation of the top eight of the ongoing B-League and it will start from March 6. According to the new calendar, the Swadhinata Cup Football tournament will get underway from at the end of March, the first division teams, BKSP and the services teams will take part in the tournament. The National Club Championship will be organised with involving the district teams across the country from April while the national team camp will also start from April ahead of the AFC Challenge Cup, Bangladesh will host the four-nation qualifying phase competition at the end of May. Meanwhile, the Dhaka Abahani Limited, the champions of the CityCell B-League will host the AFC President Cup also in May. At the end of 2009 BFF will organise a big international football tournament but it would depend on the invited foreign nations' consent. The clearance of the players of the inter-club for B-League will be held in July-August while September and October preserved for international tournament. Kazi Mohammedan Salahuddin, president of the BFF, disclosed all to press at the midway of their Emergency Committee meeting, while the BFF vice presidents Badal Roy, Manzoor Hossain Malu, Shawkat Ali Khan Jahangir, Kazi Nabil Ahmed, executive members, Harun-ur-Rashid, Sirajul Islam Bachchu, Anwarul Haque Helal and Golam Rabbani Helal were also present. Replying to a query Salahuddin said that he had a positive discussion with the Dhaka Abahani Limited and Mohammedan Sporting Club about the availability of the their booters during the national team affairs. Salahuddin explained to another query said that all the domestic and international tournaments will take place or Bangladesh will play, but their main objective is to prepare a strong national side eyeing to the SA Games will be held early 2010. "Past is past, what was happened, is not my concerned but I can assure you that the calendar, we prepared will be strictly followed." Salahuddin replied to a query.

FIFA MA Elite Referees Course ends today:

FIFA MA Elite Referees Course ends today:
9 February 2009


Today in BFF house 5 days long FIFA Member Association Elite Referees Course ended successfully. The course started on 5 February 2009. Today in the afternoon, BFF President was present there during the closing ceremony.

In the closing ceremony, FIFA Referees Development Officer from FIFA DO Colombo Mr Muhiseen Arif said, "In Bangladesh there are many talented referees. If these referees are given with proper training & given he responsibility of officiating matches then they will be very good referees in near future." He added that, "Short run & endourance training can make their performance better in international level. Course Instructor Mr Masud Enayet said, "I am very glad to find that many young & talented men & women are involved in refereeing in Bangladesh. If they continue their effort then they can really make good result in world level."
....

BFF Referees committee chairman said, "Bangladeshi referees do their job with neautrality & honesty. These courses will let the referees to perform better."

BFF President Kazi Md Salahuddin said, "In a football match, Referee is the most powerful man than any player and any official. So they have to do be strict in giving their decision honestly. Same time all the club officials & players should also respect the decision of the Referee." He added that, "Referees of Bangladesh are already internationally recognized and BFF will take every possible step for improvement.

Total 34 referees took part where 7 of them were female. After the speaches BFF President handed over the certificates among participants. BFF Referees Committee Deputy Chairman Mr Manrul Islam was also present there along with committee menbers.

Citycell 3rd Division Football League:

Tuesday, February 10, 2009

PWD blank Rainbow:

Farhad and Kader scored either side of halftime to give PWD a 2-0 win over Rainbow SC in yesterday's Citycell 3rd Division Football League at the Birshreshtha Shaheed Mostafa Kamal Stadium in Kamalapur.

The other match between Government Printing Press and Rahmatganj SC ended in a goalless draw at the same venue.

CityCell B-League: Arambagh at 9th

Tuesday, February 10, 2009

Arambagh finish at 9th place:

Arambagh goalkeeper Mitul palms away the ball during a corner as his teammates Akram (R) and Shahjada (second from L) look on during their Citycell B. League match against Chittagong Abahani at the Bangabandhu National Stadium yesterday. Photo: STAR Sports

Arambagh ended their Citycell B. League campaign yesterday on a winning note when they took revenge of their first-leg defeat to Chittagong Abahani.

The Dhaka outfit, who crashed 4-0 to Chittagong Abahani in the first half of the second professional league in the port city, won the first match of the league's penultimate round 1-0 at the Bangabandhu National Stadium.

Guinean import Mohammed Lamin Soumah struck in the 76th minute, his second goal in as many matches, inside from the penalty area after a defence lapse by the visitors.

It was Arambagh's fourth win in 20 matches and they finished on 18 points, three behind Chittagong Abahani who have a match in hand at home against Dhaka Mohammedan in the final round.

Arambagh, who drew six games and lost 10, missed the Super Cup battle as they finished third from bottom in the 11-team fray.