Rangpur Division put them in advantageous position by taking a 62 runs lead against Rajshahi while Dhaka made a strong reply to Khulna in two games of the Tier-1 of National Cricket League (NCL) at different venues across the country on Sunday.

Resuming the day on 32-2, Rangpur ended the second day on 263-3 with Nasir Hossain batting on 55 runs at Sheikh Kamal International Cricket Stadium, ground-2 in Cox’s Bazar. Dhiman Ghosh was on 14 alongside him as Rangpur would hope for a bigger lead today.

Rajshahi was bowed out for 201 in its first innings.

Opener Mehedi Maruf paved the platform amid the downfall of their top order as he scored a stubborn 78 off 232 balls. He struck seven fours and two sixes in his knock.

He was ably supported by Naeem Islam who made 54 and shared 127-run with Mehedi for the third wicket stand after Rangpur was reduced to 12-2.

Rangpur then lost some quick wickets before Nasir and Dhiman steadied the ship to keep the side ahead of Rajshahi. Iftekhar Sajjad took 2-59 for Rajshahi.