Ton-up Joy powers Chattogram to record win

Bangla Press Desk: Mahmudul Hasan Joy’s explosive century and Md Rubel’s sharp spin powered Chattogram Division to a record 99-run victory over Sylhet Division in Sunday’s first NCL T20 match at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium.

Batting first after losing the toss, Chattogram piled up a massive 214 for six, led by Joy’s stunning 110 off 63 balls, featuring nine sixes and five fours. He shared a 122-run stand in just 57 deliveries with Irfan Sukkur, who made 41 off 22. Earlier, Mominul Haque chipped in with 32 off 19 balls, while Tofael Ahmed claimed three wickets for 37 for Sylhet.

In reply, Sylhet collapsed to 115 all out, with only opener Amite Hasan (40 off 25) offering any resistance. Abu Jayed struck a late 37 off 25, but Rubel’s spin (3 for 15) ripped through the middle order. Hasan Murad and Ahmed Sharif picked up two wickets apiece.

This win surpasses Dhaka Metro’s 96-run victory over Barishal earlier in the week, making Chattogram’s triumph the largest in NCL T20 history.

In Sunday’s other fixture, Khulna Division secured a 17-run victory over Dhaka Division, thanks to an all-round performance from Ziaur Rahman, who was named Player of the Match.

Batting first, Khulna posted 186 for seven in 20 overs, with Afif Hossain (45) and captain Mohammad Mithun (41) leading the way. Openers Imranuzzaman (34) and Soumya Sarkar (24) also provided a solid start.

In reply, Dhaka Division managed 169 for nine despite captain Mahidul Islam Ankon’s valiant 47 off 36 balls. Ziaur Rahman shone with the ball, taking four wickets for 28 runs, adding to his earlier quick-fire 17 off seven balls, as Khulna sealed an impressive win to continue their strong run in the tournament.