Aich Mollah shines on T20 debut

Aich Mollah marked his T20 debut with a match-winning knock as Dhaka Metro returned to winning ways, defeating Sylhet Division by 23 runs in their fourth-round fixture of the National Cricket League T20 in Sylhet on Tuesday.

The 21-year-old batter smashed an unbeaten 53 off 33 balls, laced with six fours and two sixes. He was well supported by senior teammates Shadman Islam (49) and Mohammad Naim (36), as Metro posted a commanding 161 for three in their 20 overs after electing to bat first.

In reply, pacer Shohidul Islam led the bowling attack with figures of 3-24, while Abu Hider Rony and Maruf Mridha picked up two wickets apiece to restrict Sylhet to 138 for nine. The victory was Metro's second of the tournament.

In the day's other game at the same venue, Dhaka Division extended their unbeaten run with a 28-run win over Rajshahi Division to stay top of the points table.

Batting first, Dhaka were bowled out for 150, thanks to Rayan Rafsan Rahman's 32 off 30 balls and a late cameo from pacer Sumon Khan, who struck an unbeaten 14 off just five deliveries to lift the total.

Dhaka's bowlers then ensured a comfortable win. Left-arm spinner Nazmul Islam Apu starred with 3-10, while Sumon (2-21) and Taibur Rahman (2-25) shared key wickets as Rajshahi were restricted to 122 for nine. Dhaka now lead the table with seven points from four matches.