Openers Mohammad Naim Sheikh and Mahfizul Islam continued their spectacular run of form in the National Cricket League, striking commanding centuries on the opening day of the fourth round on Saturday.
In Rajshahi, left-handed opener Naim Sheikh registered his third consecutive first-class century to guide Dhaka Division to 293/ 3 at stumps against Rajshahi Division. Having been dismissed for a golden duck in his opening fixture of the season, Naim has roared back with scores of 137 against Sylhet, 135 against Mymensingh, and now an unbeaten 171 off 242 balls, featuring 14 boundaries and four sixes.
Dhaka stumbled early to 88/3 after spinner Sanjamul Islam removed Anisul Islam before pace bowler Asaduzzaman Payel struck twice in consecutive deliveries to dismiss Ashiqur Rahman Shibli and Marshall Ayub. However, Naim found an able partner in Mahidul Islam Ankon, with the duo sharing an unbroken 205-run fourth-wicket partnership. Ankon ended the day unbeaten on 84.
Meanwhile in Bogura, Mymensingh Division opener Mahfizul Islam struck his third century in four matches, remaining unbeaten on 156 as Mymensingh reached 299/4 against Chattogram Division. Mahfizul shared strong partnerships with Khalid Hasan (36), Munim Shahriar (56), and Abdul Mazid (34) before forming an unbroken stand with Rizan Hossain. Left-arm spinner Hasan Murad was the pick of the bowlers for Chattogram, taking 3 for 77.
In Sylhet, Rangpur Division compiled 320 for 5 against Barishal Division thanks to half-centuries from Mim Mosaddeak (77) and Abdullah Al Mamun (61 not out), supported by Alauddin Babu’s unbeaten 46.
In Cox’s Bazar, persistent rain prevented the toss from taking place in the match between Sylhet Division and Khulna Division.
