Barishal leave Sylhet's NCL title hope in limbo

Opener Iftekhar Hossain Ifti closed in on a century as Barishal moved into dominant position, leaving Sylhet Division's National Cricket League (NCL) title hopes in limbo at Rajshahi Divisional Cricket Stadium in Rajshahi on Monday, reports BSS.

Ifti ended Day 3 on 93, with Barishal at 212-4, extending their overall lead to 237 runs. Zahiduzzaman was at the crease with him on 29. Hafizur Rahman was the other key contributor for Barishal with 43 runs.

Sylhet, resuming Day 3 on 214-5, were bowled out for 287, conceding a 25-run deficit.

With the NCL title still within reach, Sylhet needed a win to secure the

championship for the second consecutive year.

However, their failure to build a significant first-innings lead has put their chances in jeopardy. A draw or defeat will hand the title to Rangpur, who won their match against Khulna in just three days.

Sylhet's hopes rested on the shoulders of

captain Zakir Hasan, who began the day on 130. However, he was dismissed without adding to his overnight score, effectively ending Sylhet's chances of taking control of the game.

Tofael Ahmed (46) and Ashraful Hasan Rihad (41) were the other notable contributors with the bat.

Ruyel Miah was

the standout bowler, wreaking havoc on Sylhet's batting order with 5-84.