Afif bags first hat-trick of NCL’s 27th edition

Khulna’s off-spinner Afif Hossain produced a remarkable bowling spell to claim the first hat-trick of the 27th National Cricket League (NCL), sending three Barishal batsmen back to the pavilion in successive deliveries — all leg before wicket. His victims, Shamsul Islam, Yasin Arafat, and Ruel Mia, were trapped in front during an inspired spell at the Khulna Divisional Stadium on Saturday.

A Match-Turning Spell

Before achieving his hat-trick, Afif had already made significant inroads into Barishal’s batting order, removing three top-order batsmen. He eventually finished the innings with 6 wickets for just 31 runs in 10.5 overs, a performance that dismantled Barishal’s resistance and gave Khulna a commanding first-innings lead.

Although this was not his career-best bowling performance — his personal best remains 7 for 67 against Rajshahi in 2018 — the hat-trick added a special milestone to his domestic cricket career.

From Early Disappointment to Match Hero

Interestingly, Afif’s day had started in disappointment. Batting at number five in Khulna’s first innings, he was dismissed LBW for a golden duck by Barishal’s pacer Ruel Mia. Yet, the off-spinner made amends in the most emphatic way possible — with the ball in hand.

He began by dismissing Salman Hossain (17), Shamsur Rahman (3), and Fazle Rabbi (LBW) to break Barishal’s early resistance. Later, in a stunning display of precision and control, he removed Shamsul Islam, Yasin Arafat, and Ruel Mia in consecutive deliveries to complete his hat-trick.

It was a moment of sheer dominance — one that saw the Barishal lower order crumble under relentless pressure.

Match Situation at Stumps

Khulna, having posted 313 runs in their first innings, bowled out Barishal for 126, securing a first-innings lead of 187 runs. At the time of reporting, Barishal were 84 for 2 in their second innings, still trailing by 103 runs and battling to avoid an innings defeat.

Historical Context and Significance

Hat-tricks in Bangladesh’s National Cricket League have always been special moments, often marking turning points in matches. Afif’s achievement is the first hat-trick of the 27th edition, placing him alongside a select group of Bangladeshi cricketers who have reached this rare milestone in the country’s premier first-class competition.

Notably, in the NCL’s history, memorable hat-tricks include Enamul Haque Jr’s feat for Sylhet in 2010 and Abdur Razzak’s effort for Khulna in 2014, both of which came during seasons that ultimately saw their teams crowned champions. Afif’s performance, therefore, echoes Khulna’s strong bowling tradition in domestic cricket.

Player Reaction and Team Response

Speaking after the day’s play, a modest Afif downplayed his individual success, saying his focus was on helping Khulna secure victory:

“I was disappointed with my batting dismissal, so I wanted to contribute with the ball. Getting a hat-trick is special, but what matters most is the team’s win.”

Khulna’s coach praised Afif’s resilience and mental strength:

“He turned his frustration into performance. That’s the mark of a mature cricketer.”

A Step Forward for Khulna’s Campaign

Khulna’s commanding position reflects their all-round strength early in the NCL season. With bowlers like Afif delivering match-winning spells, the side is expected to be a serious contender for the title this year.

For Afif, this performance could serve as a springboard for higher honours — possibly strengthening his case for a recall to the Bangladesh national team, where his dual skills as a batting all-rounder and off-spinner continue to be highly valued.

As the 27th National Cricket League unfolds, Afif’s hat-trick stands out as one of its earliest and most memorable highlights — a reminder of the depth of talent and drama that domestic cricket in Bangladesh continues to produce.