Rajshahi: Rajshahi Division clinched their first victory in the ongoing National Cricket League (NCL) as they thrashed Khulna by seven wickets in their second round match at Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium today. The victory came inside three days after Khulna were bowled out for 255, setting a meager 109-run target for Rajshahi.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, opener Habibur Rahman Sohan hammered a fluent 62 as Rajshahi overhauled the target with ease, reaching 114-3 in 23.5 overs. Pacer Nahid Rana and Ali Mohammad Walid wreaked havoc on Khulna after they resumed the day at 68-1. Both of them claimed three wickets apiece, while SM Meherob Hasan and Sunzamul Islam picked up two wickets each to further derail Khulna.
Mehidy Hasan Miraz made a team-best 48 before being dismissed by Meherob. Some other batters also scored over 30 but couldn't convert it to big knocks. Anamul Haque Bijoy made 34 while Ziaur Rahman, Yaseen Muntasir, and Amit Mojumder added 32 runs each. The batters' lack of ability to play big knocks played a key role in denying them setting a big target for Rajshahi.
However, the ultimate damage was done in the first innings when Khulna were bundled out for just 121 and conceded a 147-run lead after Rajshahi put on 268 before being all out.