Easin's five-for puts Dhaka in control of NCL second XI final

Dhaka made an impressive start to the National Cricket League (NCL) Second XI final, bowling out Khulna for just 137 before reaching 15 without loss at stumps on the opening day at the National Cricket Ground in Purbachal on Wednesday.

After winning the toss and electing to field, Dhaka's bowlers kept Khulna under constant pressure, with Easin Hossain leading the attack with five wickets for 47 runs. Maruf Mridha provided valuable support, claiming two for 10 as Khulna were dismissed in 61.2 overs.

Wicketkeeper-batter Siam Hossain Dipu was the main resistance for Khulna, scoring 59 off 114 balls with nine fours and a six. Kayes Rahman Labib remained unbeaten on 36, but the rest of the batting line-up struggled to build meaningful partnerships.

Shovon Moroll made nine, while Robiul Islam Robi scored seven. Sadman Rahman and Awlad Hossain Jibon were dismissed without scoring as Khulna failed to reach a competitive total.

Easin's disciplined bowling proved decisive in breaking through the Khulna batting order. Maruf's economical spell further restricted the opposition, leaving Dhaka with a strong opportunity to establish a substantial first-innings lead.

In reply, Dhaka reached 15 without loss in 3.5 overs before stumps. Rithik Roy was unbeaten on eight, while Rifat Beg was on seven, leaving the home side 122 runs behind with all 10 wickets intact.

The three-day final brings together two of the eight divisional teams that competed in the inaugural NCL Second XI Championship. 

The competition was introduced by the Bangladesh Cricket Board to provide players outside the established first-team setup with greater exposure to multi-day cricket.

With two days remaining, Dhaka will look to build a commanding first-innings advantage, while Khulna need early breakthroughs on the second morning to revive their hopes of challenging for the title.