Cox’s Bazar: Mahidul Islam Ankon, who recently debuted in Test cricket against South Africa, showcased his skills in the National Cricket League (NCL) by nearing a century to bolster Dhaka Division’s strong reply against Chattogram in their third-round clash at Cox’s Bazar Cricket Academy. Ankon remained unbeaten on 99 at the close of play, steering Dhaka to 281-4, as they chase Chattogram’s first innings score of 371. Despite trailing by 90 runs, Dhaka is well-positioned with six wickets in hand to potentially take the first innings lead.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Dhaka’s innings was initially anchored by openers Ashikur Rahman Shibli and Joyraj Sheikh, who constructed a solid 97-run partnership. This opening stand was disrupted when Hasan Murad claimed Shibli’s wicket for 52 runs. Murad further dented Dhaka’s innings by dismissing Joyraj, who contributed a commendable 74 runs.
Taking charge of the innings, Ankon guided Dhaka towards a stable position, skillfully hitting five fours and thre
e sixes over 153 balls. At stumps, Taibur Rahman was accompanying him, batting on 38. On the bowling front for Chattogram, Hasan Murad and Nayeem Hasan shared the spoils with two wickets each, attempting to curtail Dhaka’s solid response.