A Clash Packed with Drama, Grit and Passion
In what turned out to be an electrifying semi-final at the Global Super League 2025, Rangpur Avengers (RAR) survived a heart-stopping final over to defeat Delhi Chargers (DC) and secure their place in the grand finale. The 8th match of the league, played on July 16, kept fans at the edge of their seats till the very last ball, as Rangpur held their nerve under pressure to clinch a spot in the much-anticipated final.
DC came into the match with strong momentum, having won crucial games in the group stages, while RAR, known for their aggressive style and strategic depth, were looking to seal their journey to the top with a convincing performance. And they delivered—but not without late chaos.
RAR Post a Strong Total with Middle Order Brilliance
Batting first, Rangpur lost their openers early. DC’s bowling attack struck fast, removing both top-order batsmen within the powerplay. But it was the middle order that rescued the innings from potential collapse. Captain Haris Shamsi led the charge with a gritty 54 off 35 balls, anchoring the innings while keeping the scoreboard ticking.
His partnership with the flamboyant all-rounder Azan Haider was the turning point. Azan’s explosive knock of 47 from just 23 deliveries included four towering sixes and three cracking boundaries. Together, they added 82 crucial runs, stabilising the innings and shifting momentum towards Rangpur.
Lower-order cameos pushed RAR’s total to a challenging 178 for 6, a score that looked competitive given the conditions. DC’s bowlers, especially spinner Krish Malhotra and pacer Taimur Shah, bowled with discipline, but the middle overs proved expensive and allowed Rangpur to build a strong foundation.
Delhi’s Response: A Cautious Yet Calculated Start
Chasing 179, the Delhi Chargers had a steady beginning. Their openers, Ayaan Rizvi and Sarfaraz Khan, looked in control, picking boundaries when available and rotating strike smartly. However, RAR’s bowling attack kept the pressure on. The introduction of spin early into the innings slowed down the scoring and forced DC into making risky shots.
Sarfaraz fell for 29 trying to loft over mid-off, and Ayaan soon followed after mistiming a sweep. At 67 for 2 in the 10th over, Delhi’s innings was wobbling slightly but still in reach of the target.
It was then that veteran campaigner Nihal Singh tried to resurrect the innings. His composed 41 off 33 deliveries injected belief back into the chase. But Rangpur’s bowlers kept breaking through at just the right moments. Spinner Sameer Qureshi picked up two wickets in quick succession, including Nihal, swinging the match back in Rangpur’s favour.
Final Overs: Drama, Thrills and Ice-Cold Nerves
With 42 needed from the last four overs and only three wickets in hand, the game seemed to be slipping from Delhi’s grip. But cricket, being the game of glorious uncertainties, had one last twist to offer.
DC’s number eight, Pratik Rawat, played a stunning cameo, smashing 22 off just 10 balls. He revived DC’s hopes with two sixes in the 18th over, leaving the crowd roaring and Rangpur players visibly tense. Going into the last over, Delhi needed 11 runs with two wickets in hand.
The over began with a boundary, courtesy of an outside edge that raced to third man. A single followed. Then came the turning point—Azan Haider, delivering the final over, bowled a sharp yorker to dismiss Rawat. One ball later, he cleaned up the last batter with a slower one. Rangpur had done it. They won by just five runs, a margin that spoke volumes about their nerve and execution under pressure.
Captain’s Words: A Mix of Relief and Pride
Speaking after the game, Haris Shamsi said it was one of the most challenging matches he had led in. “We knew DC are fighters and they don’t give up easily. But our bowlers showed incredible character in the final overs. I couldn’t be prouder of how we stayed calm and finished the job.”
He also praised Azan Haider’s all-round performance. “He turned the game with the bat and sealed it with the ball. Players like him win you big matches.”
DC Coach Reflects on Missed Opportunities
Delhi Chargers’ coach, Naved Sheikh, was gracious in defeat. “We fought till the end and that’s what matters. One or two partnerships didn’t go our way. Credit to Rangpur—they were smarter in the final five overs.”
He lauded Pratik Rawat’s cameo and said the young cricketer has a bright future. “He almost did it for us. Matches like these build character.”
RAR’s Road to the Final: Guts, Teamwork and Composure
Rangpur’s journey through the tournament has been a mix of brilliance and resilience. They didn’t dominate every game, but they played smart, adaptable cricket. Their bowling unit has consistently delivered under pressure, and their batters have stepped up at key moments.
While others stumbled in crunch moments, Rangpur thrived. The team now heads into the GSL 2025 final brimming with belief and energy.
Their combination of tactical maturity, individual brilliance, and team camaraderie makes them formidable contenders for the trophy. Whether they lift it or not, their semi-final victory will be remembered as a game that tested their spirit and showcased their heart.
What’s Next: Awaiting the Final Showdown
With Rangpur Avengers securing their final spot, all eyes now turn to who they’ll face in the grand finale. Will it be a clash against a powerhouse team like Lahore Legends or a surprise challenger rising through the ranks?
Whatever the outcome, one thing is certain—the GSL 2025 final promises to be a thrilling spectacle. And if Rangpur’s performance against DC is anything to go by, the final will be nothing short of electric.
As fans across the globe eagerly await the concluding chapter of this gripping season, Rangpur’s fearless finish in the semi-final has already set a high bar for the kind of cricket the world wants to see—unpredictable, passionate, and packed with courage.
Final Score Summary
Rangpur Avengers: 178/6 in 20 overs
Delhi Chargers: 173 all out in 19.5 overs
Rangpur Avengers won by 5 runs and advanced to the GSL 2025 Final.
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