Rangpur secures NCL T20 title

Rangpur Division clinched the National Cricket League (NCL) T20 championship by defeating Dhaka Metro by five wickets in a low-scoring final at Sylhet International Cricket Stadium today.  

Rangpur�s pace duo, Mukidul Islam Mugdho and Alauddin Babu, delivered match-winning performances, each claiming 3-12 as Dhaka Metro was skittled out for a mere 62 runs in 16.3 overs�the lowest total of the tournament.  

Taking full advantage of the favorable winter conditions, Mugdho and Babu dismantled Metro�s batting lineup during the Powerplay. Mugdho struck three early blows, while Babu added two quick wickets, leaving Metro reeling at 16 for 5 within the first five overs. The batting side never recovered, with only Shamsur Rahman (14 off 28 balls) and Abu Hider Rony (13 off nine) reaching double figures.  

Chasing the modest target, Rangpur faced their own batting struggles, slumping to 14 for 4 after 4.4 overs. However, Ariful Haque and Anamul Haque Aman steadied the innings, both scoring 14 runs, with Anamul remaining unbeaten to guide Rangpur to victory.  

Earlier in the tournament, Metro had dominated the league stage, remaining undefeated and finishing at the top of the table. Rangpur, who finished second, secured their spot in the final by beating Metro in the first qualifier. Metro bounced back with a win over Khulna in the second qualifier to set up a rematch but fell short against Akbar Ali's Rangpur side in the decider.  

This victory marks a triumphant end to Rangpur�s NCL T20 campaign, showcasing their resilience and ability to perform under pressure.