Dhaka crowned inaugural NCL second XI champions

Dhaka were crowned champions of the inaugural National Cricket League (NCL) Second XI after defeating Khulna by an innings and 35 runs in the final at the National Cricket Ground in Purbachal on Friday.

The victory capped a commanding performance by Dhaka, built around a five-wicket haul from Easin Hossain in the first innings and a match-defining century from captain Ahrar Amin Pean.

After winning the toss and opting to field, Dhaka bowled Khulna out for 137 in 61.2 overs on the opening day. Easin led the attack with 5-47, while Maruf Mridha claimed two wickets for 10 runs.

Khulna's Siam Hossain Dipu top-scored with 59, while Kayes Rahman Labib remained unbeaten on 36.

Dhaka responded with 324 for eight before declaring, taking a substantial first-innings advantage. Ahrar, who was unbeaten on 131 at the end of the second day, went on to make 159. Opener Rifat Beg contributed 87, providing crucial support as Dhaka took control of the final.

Khulna's Rabbiul Islam Robi was the leading bowler with 5-121.

Facing a huge deficit, Khulna were dismissed for 152 in their second innings. Jawad Royen offered the strongest resistance with 76, but Yasin took 3-47, while Ahrar and Siam picked up three wickets each.

Ahrar was named Player of the Final for his all-round contribution.

Dhaka's Easin finished the tournament with 47 wickets to claim both the Best Bowler and Player of the Tournament awards. Chattogram's Irfan Sabri Takrir was the leading run-scorer with 602.

Dhaka received Tk 300,000 in prize money, while runners-up Khulna took Tk 150,000.