The second day of the fifth round of the National Cricket League (NCL) 2024 witnessed stellar performances across different matches. Amite Hasan from Sylhet Division dazzled with a century, while Chattogram’s pacer Ahmed Sharif dominated with a five-wicket haul, pushing his team closer to victory.

Rajshahi Division vs Chattogram Division

At the Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium in Chattogram, the host team resumed their innings at 173/8. Lower-order contributions, including a crucial 67-run partnership between Shamim Hossain (unbeaten 84*) and Ashraful, extended Chattogram’s total to 252, giving them a commanding lead of 140 runs.

Rajshahi’s second innings started poorly as they quickly lost wickets. Spinner Nayeem Hasan struck early, removing Rahmatullah Ali for just 23. A brief 54-run stand between Tanzid Hasan Tamim and Sabbir Hossain gave Rajshahi some stability before Ahmed Sharif tore through the middle order. Sharif claimed 5/47, while Irfan Hossain chipped in with two wickets, leaving Rajshahi at 202/8 by the end of Day Two with a slim lead of just 62 runs.

Dhaka Metro vs Sylhet Division

Amite Hasan continued his stellar form for Sylhet, converting his overnight score of 51 into a brilliant century on the second day. Amite’s composed 101 off 204 balls, his ninth first-class hundred, anchored Sylhet’s innings. Contributions from Mubin Ahmed Dishan (43) and Asadullah (56) propelled Sylhet to a total of 376, gaining a 246-run lead over Dhaka Metro.

In reply, Dhaka Metro’s batting collapsed under pressure. Fast bowler Khaled Ahmed removed both openers early, while Rejaur Rahman Raja claimed two wickets to reduce Dhaka Metro to 49/4 at stumps, still trailing by 197 runs.

Barishal Division vs Rangpur Division

Barishal resumed Day Two at 266/7, adding a further 70 runs, thanks to captain Tanvir Islam’s aggressive 52 off 57 balls. Barishal posted a solid total of 336 in their first innings. Rangpur’s bowling attack, led by Mamun, Halim, and Ariful, shared the wickets.

Rangpur’s reply began shakily, losing opener Mim Mosaddeak early. However, a 90-run third-wicket stand between Mamun (65) and Naeem Islam (40) brought them back into contention. Barishal pacer Moin Khan ended the partnership, dismissing Mamun with a sharp delivery. Rangpur finished the day at 218/5, trailing by 118 runs, with Tanbir Hayder and Ariful Haque steadying the innings.