Sylhet Division is tantalizingly close to winning their maiden National Cricket League (NCL) title. On the final day of Round 5 tomorrow, Sylhet could secure the championship if two key results align: they must chase down Barishal’s 105-run target for victory, and Rangpur must fail to win against Dhaka Metrop in the concurrent match.

Sylhet’s Dominance Against Barishal

Playing at the Sylhet Academy Ground, Sylhet bowled out Barishal for just 142 runs in their second innings, setting up a modest target of 105 runs. Earlier in the match, Sylhet earned a 38-run first-innings lead, thanks to notable contributions from batters Mubin Ahmed (53), Amit Hasan (56), and Nasum Ahmed (53). Tofael Ahmed’s 64 further consolidated their position, supported by Rejaur Rahman Raja’s patient 35 off 140 balls.

The bowling attack was spearheaded by Khaled Ahmed, who claimed four wickets, and Nasum Ahmed, who chipped in with two crucial dismissals.

Rangpur Struggles Against Dhaka Metropolis

In Cox’s Bazar, Rangpur is in a precarious position against Dhaka Metropolis. Responding to Dhaka's mammoth first-innings total of 475 runs, Rangpur ended Day 3 at 253/9, still needing 72 runs to avoid the follow-on.

If Rangpur fails to secure a victory, it would pave the way for Sylhet to clinch the title—provided they complete their straightforward chase against Barishal.

Tight Contest Between Khulna and Chattogram

Meanwhile, at the Sylhet Stadium Academy Ground, Khulna and Chattogram are engaged in a nail-biting battle. Khulna has set a target of 204 runs, riding on notable performances from Anamul Haque Bijoy (75) and Sheikh Parvez Jibon (52). On Day 3, Chattogram stumbled to 118/7 after 30 overs, with Khulna pacer Al-Amin Hossain taking 4 wickets for 55 runs.

To win, Chattogram needs 86 more runs with only three wickets in hand. Their hopes rest on Ahmed Sharif (5*) and Ashraful Hasan (28*), who will resume batting tomorrow.

A Historic Day Awaits

As the final day of NCL Round 5 unfolds, cricket fans are eagerly awaiting the results. If Sylhet secures victory and Rangpur falters, it will mark a historic achievement for Sylhet Division in Bangladesh's domestic cricket. All eyes will be on the thrilling conclusion of these matches.