Amite: The Day 1 of the National Cricket League (NCL) third round saw an action-packed day with Amite Hasan and Paran missing deserving centuries. On the other hand, Naim Sheikh and Salman Hossain Emon showed a consistency that required to keep them relevant.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, in the match between Rajshahi and Barishal, Salman Emon hit a half-century following his century in the previous round, but his side Barishal Division was kept at bay by Barishal bowlers on Day 1 at Khulna Divisional Stadium. Salman scored a fighting 58 amid his colleagues’ downfall as Barishal were bowled out for just 212 in their first innings. Rajshahi reached six for no loss at stumps. Rajshahi bowlers put up a total team effort with Shafiqul Islam, Ali Mohammad Walid, Rahim Ahmed, Nihaduzzaman, and Sunzamul Islam all taking two wickets apiece.
In the Chattogram vs Khulna match, Chattogram made a strong start, reaching 340-8 against Khulna Division on Day 1 at Bir Shreshtha Shaheed Flight Lieutenant Matiur Rahman Cricket Stadium. All-rounder Paran missed out on the ton by nine runs, but his 91 gave the side a strong base after Chattogram were asked to bat first. He shared a 94-run partnership with Sazzadul Hoque Ripon for the fifth wicket, after Chattogram were reduced to 99-4. However, Ripon and Irfan Shukkur then stitched 69 runs for the sixth wicket to keep the runs flowing. Sofor Ali was the most successful bowler for Khulna with 4-51.
The Sylhet vs Rangpur match saw Amite Hasan miss out on a deserved century as Sylhet were reduced to 172-7 against Rangpur at Cox’s Bazar Cricket Stadium. After a delayed start due to a wet outfield, Sylhet were troubled by Robiul Haque, who removed both openers in single-digit figures before Amite’s resistance. Amite hit 91 off 110 with 11 boundaries before Mukidul Islam Mugdho dismissed him with a return catch. Rangpur’s Abdullah Al Mamun grabbed 3-55, slicing the Sylhet middle order.
In the clash between Mymensingh and Dhaka, opener Naim Sheikh kept up his good run of form as Mymensingh reached 100-2 on a rain-curtailed Day 1 against Dhaka Division at Cox’s Bazar Cricket Academy. Only 32 overs of play were possible after a delayed start due to a wet outfield. Naim Sheikh made a 55 not out, ensuring Mymensingh wouldn’t fall into deep trouble despite some good bowling efforts by Dhaka bowlers. Anamul Haque and Salahuddin Shakil took one wicket apiece for Dhaka.