Dhaka Division claimed an emphatic victory over Rajshahi Division by an innings and 103 runs, thanks to Mohammad Naim’s career-best score of 282 in the fourth round of the National Cricket League (NCL). This victory marks Dhaka’s first in the tournament, boosting them to second place with 15 points.
Naim showcased exceptional skill during his 369-ball innings, striking 21 fours and seven sixes. His impressive performance featured a 363-run partnership for the fourth wicket with Mahidul Islam Ankon, who posted 165. As both captain and wicketkeeper, this was Naim’s fourth century, while Ankon delivered 14 fours and eight sixes in his 289-ball tenure.
Rajshahi Division managed a brief resistance, led by leg-spinner Wasi Siddiquee taking four wickets, but they faltered, ending up at 10 for 3 on the third day and were eventually bowled out for 162. Fast bowler Sumon Khan admirably took four wickets. In their follow-on, Rajshahi reached 256, with Sabbir Rahman scoring fifties in both innings. For Dhaka, Anamul Haque claimed three wickets.
Meanwhile, Sylhet Division set new records against Khulna Division in Cox’s Bazar, though the game concluded in a draw. Sylhet’s batting display culminated in their highest-ever team total of 623 for 6 declared. Despite the match commencing a day late due to rain, Amite Hasan hit his third double-century, captain Zakir Hasan amassed 160, and Ashraful Hasan Rihad added a century. Zakir and Mubin Ahmed Dishan put up 170 for the opening pair, while Amite and Rihad constructed a 244-run stand for the fifth wicket.
Sylhet’s commanding total also marked the first instance of three batsmen reaching centuries in the same innings for the team. The match was eventually called off with Khulna at 199 for 7, as Mohammad Mithun and Afif Hossain contributed half-centuries.
Elsewhere, Mymensingh Division recorded their fourth consecutive draw, this time against Chattogram Division. Mahfijul Islam’s unbeaten 217 in Mymensingh’s declaration at 465 for 7 opened the first innings. On the other side, Chattogram posted 599 all out with half-centuries by Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Tasamul Haque, Shahadat Hossain, Sabbir Hossen, and captain Irfaan Shukkur, while Shah Paran notched up an impressive maiden first-class century with 163 runs.
Defending champions Rangpur Division drew against Barishal Division in Sylhet. Batting first, Rangpur reached 402 with contributions from Mim Mosaddeak and Abdullah Al Mamun. In response, Barishal achieved a 41-run lead, declaring at 443 for 9, courtesy of Fazle Mahmud’s 11th first-class century. Rangpur replied when Mosaddeak and Nobin Islam hit centuries, ending the game on 288 for 5 after batting for the last 78 overs.
