Rajshahi: Opener Iftekhar Hossain Ifti and middle-order batsman Hafizur Rahman struck half-centuries as Barishal finished Day 1 at 269 for 9 against table-toppers Sylhet Division in the seventh and final round of the 27th National Cricket League (NCL) at Rajshahi Divisional Stadium today.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Barishal elected to bat first and started strongly, with Ifti and Moinul Islam putting together a substantial 78-run opening partnership. However, their solid start was disrupted by spinner Nasum Ahmed, who broke the stand by dismissing Moinul for 36. Ifti, who had been anchoring the innings, followed soon after, falling for 63, which left Barishal to rebuild their innings.
Barishal's middle order faced challenges against the disciplined bowling of Mohiduddin Tarek and Abu Jayed Rahi. Tarek was particularly effective, taking 3 wickets for 34 runs, while Rahi contributed with 2 wickets for 46 runs. Despite these setbacks, Hafizur Rahman tried to stabilize the innings, scoring a valuable 58 before being bowled by Tofael Ahmed.
At stumps, Sohag Gazi remained unbeaten on 25, with No. 11 batsman Ruyel Mea yet to score. Barishal's effort to reach 269 for 9 sets up an intriguing contest as the match progresses into the following days.