By Zainab Shafiq 
From the brink of elimination to a sensational qualification, the Rangpur Riders have scripted an inspiring comeback story in the ongoing Global Super League (GSL 2024). Their road to the final against table-toppers Victoria has been anything but smooth, marked by ups, and downs, and a fighting spirit that refused to die.
The Riders began their campaign with a thrilling tie against Hampshire, narrowly losing in the Super Over. A closely contested 10-run defeat to Victoria in their second match left them struggling in the standings with no wins after two games. However, the Riders turned their fortunes around when it mattered the most. This blog discusses how their fortunes turned.
Rangpur Riders’ journey in GSL 2024
Rangpur Riders have scripted a stunning turnaround in the Global Super League 2024, clinching a spot in the final against Victoria on December 7. Despite a shaky start, the Riders displayed resilience and secured back-to-back victories to seal their qualification.
Their campaign began with heartbreak, tying their opener against Hampshire but losing the Super Over. Things worsened when they fell short against Victoria by 10 runs in their second match. With zero wins in two games, Rangpur’s hopes of advancing appeared slim.
However, the Riders turned their fortunes around in their third match against Guyana Amazon Warriors. A solid team effort helped them secure a 15-run victory, keeping their qualification chances alive. Their final league match against Lahore Qalandars was a do-or-die encounter. Rangpur Riders rose to the occasion, delivering a clinical performance to win by 23 runs via the DLS method.
Key performers played pivotal roles in the Riders’ campaign. Soumya Sarkar has been their standout batter, amassing 102 runs in four matches at a strike rate of 130.76, including a fifty. Khushdil Shah added firepower with 98 runs in just three innings, maintaining a strike rate of 120.98.
On the bowling front, ZJ Chappell has been exceptional, taking seven wickets in four matches with best figures of 5/23. Kamrul Islam Rabbi also impressed with six scalps in three games, including a standout 4/13 performance. Their combined efforts have been instrumental in Rangpur’s march to the final.
Rangpur Riders now face a formidable challenge against Victoria in the final. Victoria, with three wins in four matches and a superior net run rate (+1.052), have been the dominant team in the tournament. However, Rangpur’s recent momentum and team spirit could make for an exciting showdown on December 7.
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GSL 2024 final: Lahore Qalandars are just one step away from qualification