Chattogram clinch innings win as NCL round ends in three draws

Chattogram Division secured the only outright victory of the latest round of the National Cricket League (NCL), beating Barishal Division by an innings and one run as the other three matches ended in draws on Tuesday.

Chattogram built their victory on a commanding first-innings total of 576. In reply, Barishal managed 282 before being dismissed in their first innings and followed up with 293 in the second, leaving them one run short of forcing Chattogram to bat again. Sadikur Rahman was named Player of the Match for his 149, which provided a major contribution to Chattogram's dominant performance.

At the Shere Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur, Rajshahi Division mounted a strong second-innings recovery against Khulna Division to secure a draw. After being dismissed for 119 in their first innings, Rajshahi responded with 500 for nine declared. Khulna had earlier posted 484, giving Rajshahi a narrow first-innings deficit before their recovery.

Mahedi Hasan was named Player of the Match despite the drawn result. He took six wickets for 38 runs in Rajshahi's first innings, scored 104 with the bat and claimed two wickets for 121 in the second innings.

Dhaka Division and Sylhet Division also played out a draw. Dhaka declared their first innings at 547 for six before adding 219 for six declared in the second. Sylhet replied with 496 and finished at two for one while chasing a target of 271.

Marshall Ayub earned the Player of the Match award after scoring 175 in Dhaka's first innings and adding 32 in the second, underlining his value with the bat.

Rangpur Division and Mymensingh Division shared the honours in the other drawn contest. Rangpur declared their first innings at 422 for nine and their second at 245 for six. Mymensingh scored 295 in their first innings and reached 189 for four while chasing a target of 373.

Mim Mosaddeak was named Player of the Match for his contributions of 157 and 20 for Rangpur.

The round produced three draws, with Chattogram's comprehensive victory over Barishal standing out as the decisive result.