Sylhet: Opener Mahmudul Hasan Joy hit his maiden century in the T20 format as Chattogram Division topped the NCL T20 point table, crushing Sylhet by 99 runs at Sylhet International Cricket Stadium today. Joy smashed a 63-ball 110, laced with five fours and nine towering sixes, guiding Chattogram to a daunting 214-6, before their bowlers dismantled Sylhet’s batting lineup to skittle them out for just 115 in 18.1 overs.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Chattogram was put into bat first, with Joy and Mominul Haque providing a solid start by adding 63 off 40 balls. Joy contributed 32 off 19 in this partnership. Despite the quick dismissals of middle-order batters Shahadat Hossain Dipu (2) and Sadikur Rahman (14), Irfan Shukkur supported Joy effectively. Together, they combined for 122 runs for the fourth wicket, propelling the side past the 200-run mark.
Joy completed his first T20 century and was dismissed in the closing overs. Two balls later, Irfan followed him after a brisk 22-ball 41, an innings featuring four fours and two sixes. Despite their dismissals in quick succession, Chattogram’s total remained formidable.
Tofael Ahmed claimed 3-37 while Nabil Samad returned figures of 2-24 for Sylhet, but their efforts could not hinder Chattogram’s momentum. Opener Amite Hasan made a promising start for Sylhet, top-scoring with 40 off 25, including seven boundaries. However, other Sylhet batters crumbled under the pressure of the large chase, resulting in the loss of wickets at regular intervals. No.9 batter Abu Jayed Rahi added 37, while Khalid Hasan was the only other Sylhet player to reach double digits with 18.
Mohammad Rubel Mea was instrumental for Chattogram, grabbing 3-15, ensuring his team’s comprehensive victory and their position at the top of the points table.