Cox's Bazar: Left-arm spinner Sunzamul Islam claimed 6-40 as Rajshahi cruised to its first victory in the ongoing National Cricket League (NCL), thrashing Barishal by six wickets at Cox's Bazar Stadium today. Resuming the Day 4, which was the final day of the game, at 10 for no loss, Barishal were bowled out for just 137 runs, in the face of the disciplined bowling of Sunzamul. According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, having been wrapped up in such a low total, Barishal were able to set just a 68-run target for Rajshahi. However, Rajshahi also faced hiccups as they lost four wickets before reaching the winning target. SM Meherob Hossain was not out on 23 to sail the side home with Pritom Kumar, who hit 80 in the side's first innings, on 5. Habibur Rahman scored 17, and Mizanur Rahman contributed 16. The game, which looked to be heading for a draw, got a new lease of life after Sunzamul's heroic bowling performance. Sunzamul, also the captain of Rajshahi, ripped through Barishal's batting lineup with a gem of spin bowling that helped bring out the result. Tasamul Haque was the major contributor for Barishal with a score of 46. Earlier in the match, Barishal were all out for 205 in the first innings, thanks to Iftekhar Hossain Ifti's valiant 116. Rajshahi replied with 275 all out, taking a 70-run lead, which proved to be decisive in the end.
