Dhaka clinch inaugural NCL Second Xi title

Easin Hossain laid the foundation by ripping through Khulna on the opening day, while captain Ahrar Amin followed up with a century before Dhaka’s bowlers completed the job in style.

Dhaka Second Eleven were crowned champions of the inaugural National Cricket League (NCL) Second Eleven after thrashing Khulna by an innings and 35 runs in the final at the National Cricket Ground in Purbachal.

Easin set the tone on the opening day, claiming 5-47 as Khulna were bundled out for just 137 in their first innings. Dhaka seized control of the contest from there and took a 122-run lead by the end of the second day.

Captain Ahrar, who had remained unbeaten on 131 overnight, extended his innings to 159 on the third day to put his side firmly in command. Dhaka declared their innings at 324-8, setting Khulna a daunting task to avoid an innings defeat.

Rabbiul Islam Robi was the pick of the Khulna bowlers, taking 5-121.

However, Khulna failed to offer much resistance in their second innings and were bowled out for 152. Yasin returned figures of 3-47, while Ahrar and Siam claimed three wickets each, conceding 25 and 19 runs respectively.

Jawad Royen fought a lone battle for Khulna with 76, but his effort was not enough to prevent defeat.

Ahrar was named Player of the Final for his all-round contribution and received Tk 10,000.

Chattogram’s Irfan Sabri Takrir finished as the tournament’s highest run-scorer with 602 runs and received Tk20,000 as the Best Batter.

Dhaka’s Easin was the standout performer of the tournament, claiming a remarkable 47 wickets. He was named both Best Bowler and Player of the Tournament, earning a combined prize money of Tk70,000.

Champions Dhaka received the trophy and Tk300,000 in prize money, while runners-up Khulna took home Tk150,000.