Kayes: Khulna Division secured its first victory in the ongoing 26th National Cricket League (NCL), romping to a massive nine-wicket win against Dhaka Metro today at Sylhet International Cricket Stadium.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the victory looked imminent when Khulna enforced follow-on on Metro but a stubborn 152-run knock from Marshall Ayub enabled Metro to put on 372 in its second innings before being all out on the final day. This set Khulna a 207-run target for victory in less than two sessions.
Khulna took the challenge, with Bijoy and Kayes playing a whirlwind knock to help the side gun down the target in just 35 overs by reaching 209-1. Bijoy hammered 71 off 47 balls with 10 fours and two sixes before being dismissed by Aminul Islam Biplob. However, Kayes remained firm to ensure the side’s victory, scoring an unbeaten 83 off 80 balls, featuring nine fours and four sixes. Amit Mojumder was not out on 41 at the time of the victory.
Earlier in the first innings, Khulna posted 376 befo
re being all out, with Bijoy (125) and Amit (145) hitting centuries. Metro were wrapped up for 210 after Mahedi Hasan took 5-62. Khulna chose to enforce follow-on rather than opting to bat for the second time.
This match marked Metro’s first defeat in three matches and Khulna’s first victory in the same number of games.