DHAKA, Nov 9, 2024 (BSS)-Despite a valiant century of Ariful Haque, Rangpur Division were bowled out for 189 in its first innings on Day 1 of their fourth round game against Rajshahi Division in the National Cricket League (NCL) today at Rajshahi Stadium. 

Amid the batting debacle, Ariful stood tall to make 103 not out, playing 161 balls and hitting 13 fours and two sixes.

The second best 28 came from the willow of Naeem Islam while Abudl Gaffar Saqlain contributed 16.

Pacer Sabbir Hosan was the wrecker-in-chief, claiming his career-best 6-47.

Put into bat first, Rangpur fell in deep trouble losing the three top order batters for single digit figure before Naeem and skipper Akbar Ali held Rajshahi bowlers but for a brief time.

Sabbir dismissed both of them before Ariful came up with resistance and single-handedly took the side past 150-run mark.

Rajshahi reached 39-1 at stumps with Habibur Rahman (12) and Sabbir Hossain (17) in the crease.