In the latest National Cricket League (NCL) fixtures, Chattogram Division surged to the top of the points table following a convincing innings and one-run triumph over Barishal Division. Sadikur Rahman emerged as the standout performer, earning the Player of the Match with a career-high 149 as Chattogram amassed a formidable 576 all out. In support, Shahadat Hossain added 109, featuring five sixes and three fours, while skipper Irfan Shukkur contributed 112, marking him as the first Chattogram captain-wicketkeeper to notch a century.
Barishal, responding to this challenge, registered 282 in their opening innings and narrowly fell short at 293 in the second, ultimately one run shy of forcing Chattogram to bat again. For Chattogram, Ashraful Hasan Rohan claimed five wickets, while left-arm spinner Hasan Murad expanded his first-class career tally to 200 wickets by taking six in the match.
Meanwhile, Dhaka hosted a staunch draw between Rajshahi Division and Khulna Division. Rajshahi started with 119, thwarted by Mahedi Hasan’s 6 for 38—his tenth five-wicket haul. Mahedi then distinguished himself with the bat, scoring his seventh first-class century, steering Khulna to 484 all out.
Rajshahi’s follow-up was spirited, featuring a brisk 90 from Habibur Rahman Sohan, bolstered by Sabbir Hossain’s 88. At number three, Nayeem Ahmed secured a half-century before Sabbir Rahman demonstrated patience, labouring over five hours to secure his first NCL century in 14 years, completing 113 runs. Rajshahi declared at 500 for 9 late on day four.
Two draw matches emerged in Sylhet. At the academy ground, Rangpur Division, courtesy of Mim Mosaddek’s debut first-class century, declared for 422 for nine. Mymensingh responded with 295 all out, before Rangpur notched up 245 for 6 declared. Mymensingh cautiously tackled their final innings, accumulating 189 for 4 across 64 overs.
Next door at the international stadium, Sylhet Division and Dhaka Division’s duel also concluded all-square amidst high scores. Marshall Ayub’s 175 led the charge for Dhaka, marking his 30th first-class century as they declared on 547 for six. Dhaka’s innings also saw contributions from Mohammad Naim, with 137, and captain Mahidul Islam Ankon’s 108.
Sylhet replied robustly with Ashraful Hasan Rihad reaching his inaugural first-class century, part of their 496 total. In Dhaka’s second innings, despite early setbacks of two ducks, the 20-year-old Ashiqur Rahman Shibli recorded his fourth century, and Dhaka declared at 219 for 6. Sylhet then lost a quick wicket in the brief period they were set to bat at the close.
These matches, showcasing emerging talents and seasoned performances, reflect the competitive spirit inherent in Bangladesh’s cricketing landscape.
