The New Nation - Internet Edition

Sports Reporter

Rajshahi Division retained their supremacy in the Ispahani Mirzapur Tea 9th National Cricket League when they defeated Sylhet Division by six wickets in their one-dayer match at the Narayanganj Osmani Stadium on Saturday.

Chasing Sylhet's modest total of 206 off 49.3 overs, Rajshahi coasted home in 46.5 overs scoring 209 for the loss of four wickets.

Rabiul Karim of Rajshahi knocked a patient 54 facing 90 deliveries amid four boundaries while Nayeem Islam hit an undefeated 52 off 49 balls including four fours.

Farhad Hossain hit a polished 41 off 75 balls.

Alok Kapali of Sylhet bagged a couple of wickets conceding 36 runs while Nazmul Hossain and Imtiaz Hossain got one wicket each for 20 and 29 runs respectively.

Earlier, Alok Kapali shone with the willow making a fine 69 off 64 balls. He cracked six fours and two sixes.

Farhad Hossain of Rajshahi bowled a devastating spell and finished as 3.3-X-16-5.

Delwar Hossain and Mahbub Alam bagged a pair of wickets each giving away 23 and 27 runs respectively.

After yesterday's outcome, Rajshahi Division secured maximum 12 points from six matches while Sylhet Division remained with four points from as many matches.

Meanwhile, Dhaka Division registered an emphatic eight-wicket victory over Khulna Division in their one-dayer clash at the Bir Sreshtha Shaheed Matiur Rahman Stadium in Khulna on the same day.

Batting first Khulna Division were skittled out for 125 off 37.2 overs.

In replay, Dhaka Division romped home and dry in just 33.2 overs making 126 for the loss of two wickets.

Opener Shamsur Rahman of Dhaka Division notched up a sedate 53 playing 91 deliveries with three fours and a six while skipper Al-Shahriar remained undefeated with 35 off 59 balls. He struck five shots beyond the ropes.

Spinner Abdur Razzak of Khulna Division picked up two wickets at the cost of 24 runs.

Earlier, Abdur Razzak hit 39 off 56 balls including two boundaries.

Mahbubul Alam of Dhaka Division played the key role in wrecking Khulna innings capturing four wickets for 34 runs with a good support from Niaz Morshed who chipped in with two wickets instead of 39 runs.

Besides, Mosharrof Hossain and Mahmudullah Riyad took one wicket apiece.

Dhaka Division and Khulna Division collected six points each from their respective six matches.