Rajshahi take 153-run lead over Barisal

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Rajshahi Division took the driving seat with an overall 153 runs lead over Barisal Division on the 2nd day of the 2nd phase four-day match of the 12th National Cricket League at the Khan Saheb Osman Ali Stadium at Fatullah in Narayanganj Monday, reports UNB. Resuming the 2nd day with overnight 253 for 7, Rajshahi Division, riding on night watch batsman Dhiman Ghosh's ton, scored 324 for all in 110.2 overs in their first innings. Mddle order batsman Dhiman Ghosh contributed 141 runs off 212 balls with 16 fours. Sohag Gazi, who grabbed four wickets on the opening day, completed his five-wicket haul today (Monday) conceding 91 runs. Besides, Arafat Salahuddin and Touhidul Islam captured two wickets each for 49 and 50 runs respectively. In reply, Barisal Division were all out for 184 runs in 60.5 overs in their first innings in the face of devastating bowling attack by Naeem Islam, who grabbed five wickets for 50 runs. Number five batsman Nuruzzaman (45), Tariqul Islam (42) and Iftekhar Nayeem (38) were the other notable scorers for Barisal Division. Apart from Naeem Islam's five wickets, Tajul Islam claimed four wickets for 47 runs. Rajshahi Division began their 2nd innings this (Monday) afternoon and scored 13 for 1 in 4 overs at stumps on the 2nd day. After the departure of opener Rahat Sadik (11), another opener Mizanur Rahman and one down Shahjada Hossain were batting on 2 and 0 run as the bails were drawn for the 2nd day. Tariqul Islam took one wicket for one run. In the other match, Dhaka Division in their first innings scored 110 for 2 in 39 overs at stumps on the second day today at the Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium in Chittagong, replying to Sylhet Division's 1st innings score of 320 for all.