DHAKA, Nov 5, 2024 (BSS) - Khulna Division secured its first victory in the ongoing 26th National Cricket League (NCL), romping to a massive nine-wicket win against Dhaka Metro today at Sylhet International Cricket Stadium.

The victory looked imminent when Khulna enforced follow-on on Metro but a stubborn 152-run knock from Marshall Ayub enabled Metro to put on 372 in its second innings before being all out on final day. And that set Khulna a 207-run for victory in less than two sessions.

Khulna took the challenge, with Bijoy and Kayes playing a whirlwind knock to help the side gun down the target in just 35 overs by reaching 209-1.

Bijoy hammered 47 ball-71 with 10 fours and two sixes before being dismissed by Aminul Islam Biplob. But Kayes hung on there to ensure the side’s victory, hammering an unbeaten 83 off 80, studded with nine fours and four sixes.

Amit Mojumder was not out on 41 at the time of the victory.

Earlier in the first innings, Khulna posted 376 before being all out with Bijoy (125) and Amit (145) hitting centuries.

Metro were wrapped up for 210 after Mahedi Hasan took 5-62. Khulna chose to enforce follow-on rather than batting for the second time.

It was Metro’s first defeat in three matches while Khulna’s first in same number of games.