DHAKA, Nov 18, 2023 (BSS)-Despite getting all of the stars back in the team, Rajshahi were in troublesome situation in the last round of the 25th National Cricket League (NCL) as they were bowled out for just 189 against Chattogram Division on day one at Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium in Chattogram today.
Captain Shanto, who was also appointed Test captain for New Zealand series, scored just 31. While he fared little better, senior batter Mushfiqur Rahim continued his dismal form, which began in the World Cup, with nine-ball-duck. Opener Tanzid Hasan Tamim also failed to give the side a good start by being out on 10.
When the national stars put a disastrous performance, Sabbir Hosan rescued the side from ultimate shamble with 73. Wicket-keeper Pritom Kumar was the next-best scorer with 47 not out.
Hasan Morad enjoyed his maiden call up in the national team for New Zealand series with 4-73 and pacer Hasan Mahmud who also got a call up in the Test team for the first time took 3-46 for Chattogram.
Offspinner Nayeem Hasan took a hat-trick and ended with 3-44. He removed Mohor Sheikh in the last ball of the 47th over before claiming the wicket of Saqlain Sajib and Nahid Rana in the first two balls of the 49th over.
Chattogram, who has the chance to move to NCL Tier-1 from Tier-2, ended the day on 72-2.
In another Tier-2 game, Barishal were bowled out for 239 against Khulna at Sheikh Abu Naser Stadium in Khulna with Kamrul Islam Rabbi making highest 61. Khulna reached 16 for no loss at stumps.
In bowlers' dominating match in NCL Tier-1 at Shaheed Chandu Stadium in Bogra, Sylhet were bowled out for 125 against Rangpur Division. But Rangpur itself found it tough to get going as they ended the day on 124-6, trailing still by one run.