Dhaka Division took firm control of their National Cricket League fixture by unleashing a batting onslaught followed by a ruthless pace-bowling performance that all but ended Chattogram’s championship ambitions. Beginning the day from a commanding position—356 for 2—Dhaka extended their advantage with disciplined, high-calibre batting before declaring at a colossal 541 for 6.
The day began with Anisul Islam on 183, within touching distance of a maiden double century. His innings had already transformed the match, but all hopes of reaching the landmark were dashed early in the session. Hasan Mahmud, operating with sharp rhythm, induced an edge that saw Anisul caught behind for 186. Though visibly disappointed, the opener received warm applause from teammates and spectators alike for his career-best effort.
Veteran batter Marshall Ayub also played a pivotal role, having reached his century the previous day. He pushed on to 165 before falling to spinner Hasan Murad. Marshall’s wealth of experience continues to benefit Dhaka, and his latest innings marked yet another addition to his extensive list of first-class milestones—his 29th century.
Ashiqur Rahman provided the final flourish. Forced off the field by injury the previous day, he returned resolutely and reached an unbeaten 100, showing discipline and restraint while anchoring Dhaka’s dominance. With three centurions and a total exceeding 540, Dhaka declared confidently, knowing they had piled immense psychological pressure on Chattogram.
What followed was a complete capitulation from the batting side. Dhaka’s pacers struck with lethal accuracy, reducing Chattogram to 23 for 4. The bounce and lateral movement proved too much for the top order, who were trapped in a mix of indecision and defensive desperation. Yasir Ali and Irfan Sukkur briefly revived hopes with a 61-run stand, but Dhaka dismantled the partnership within ten balls to regain full control. By stumps, Chattogram were left gasping at 94 for 6, with Suman Khan leading the attack with 3 wickets.
The day also produced drama across other NCL venues. Rajshahi, although out of the title race, continued to disrupt the dreams of Mymensingh. After securing a first-innings lead of 82, Rajshahi moved further ahead by reaching 210 for 6 in their second innings—extending the lead to 292. Mymensingh earlier collapsed to 137 all out, undone by a magnificent spell from left-arm spinner Sanjamul, who took 5 wickets in just 5.1 overs. It was his 27th five-wicket haul, underlining his class and consistency in domestic cricket.
In Bogura, the contest between title hopefuls Khulna and Rangpur remained delicately balanced. Rangpur were bundled out for 174 courtesy of Safar Ali’s five-wicket burst. Khulna stumbled early in their second innings, losing five wickets for just 41 runs, yet still carried a substantial overall lead of 175 heading into day three.
In Rajshahi, league leaders Sylhet endured early trouble against Barishal but ended the day on a positive note thanks to their captain Zakir Hasan. After Barishal were bowled out for 312, Sylhet lost four wickets for 47 but recovered through a crucial stand between Zakir and Ashraful Hasan. Zakir’s unbeaten 130 not only stabilised the innings but also saw him surpass the 6,000-run milestone. Sylhet closed at 214 for 5, positioning themselves for a competitive push as the match progresses.
