The second round of the National Cricket League began under overcast skies, with three centurions, Mohammad Naim, Mahfizul Islam, and Sadikur Rahman lighting up an otherwise rain-affected opening day. None of the four matches reached completion as poor weather and fading light curtailed play across venues.
At the Cox’s Bazar Academy Ground, Naim Sheikh continued his impressive record against Rangpur Division by striking 111 off 163 balls, his fourth first-class century and third in a row against the same opponents. His partner Mahfizul Islam Robin, a former age-level cricketer, celebrated his maiden hundred in first-class cricket with a patient 127 off 228 deliveries. The pair added 220 runs for the opening wicket, guiding Mymensingh Division to a strong 281 for 2 in 82 overs before stumps were drawn early due to bad light.
Over at the Cox’s Bazar International Stadium, Chattogram Division’s Sadikur Rahman joined the century list with a commanding 122 off 174 balls against Barishal Division. His innings featured eight boundaries and five sixes. Alongside Mominul Haque, who remained unbeaten on 84, Sadikur put on 143 for the second wicket to take Chattogram to 260 for 4 before play was stopped.
Elsewhere in Mirpur, the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium witnessed a day for the bowlers, as Khulna Division were bundled out for 121 in 44.5 overs before Rajshahi Division reached 87 for 3 at close. Mehidy Hasan Miraz starred with both bat and ball, claiming three wickets after Khulna’s collapse was triggered by pacer Ali Mohammad.
Rain delayed the start of play in Sylhet, allowing just 43.1 overs between Sylhet Division and Dhaka Division at the Sylhet Academy Ground. Dhaka reached 120 for 5, with captain Mahidul Islam unbeaten on 36. For Sylhet, pacers Ebadot Hossain and Khaled Ahmed shared five wickets between them.
