Rajshahi emerge champions in Walton National Cricket League

Sports Correspondent: Rajshahi Division emerged champions beating Barishal by six wickets in the last round of Walton 20^th National Cricket League (NCL).

Junaid Siddique remained unbeaten on a ton as Rajshahi Division chased down the required target of 283 against Barishal in the Tier 1 match at Shahid Kamruzzaman Stadium in Rajshahi to win their sixth National Cricket League title.

Rajshahi secured the top position making two wins out of six matches and four draws with 34.81 points while Rangpur in the second place with 21.09 points. Rangpur Division could not chase down Rajshahi even they win in the last round against Khulna.

Starting the day at 182 for 2, Rajshahi picked the required 102 runs in the morning session in 25 overs as Junaid hit a terrific 181-ball 120, laced with 17 fours to take his side to victory. He starred in a 149-run partnership with Jahurul Islam for the third-wicket before the latter fell for a 108-ball 64.

Rajshahi had been promoted to the Tier 1 in this season after playing the previous season in Tier 2 and their sixth title came after a period of more than six years.

Farhad Reza and Mohor Sheikh were the heroes with the ball for Rajshahi with the latter bagging a five-wicket haul as Barishal were bowled out for just 97 in the first innings. Rajshahi then managed just 160 in their first innings before Barishal posted 346 in their second innings to leave Rajshahi with a 283-run-target in the last innings.

Junaid Siddique won the Man of the Match title in the match.


risingbd/Dhaka/Nov 8, 2018/Porag/AI