Imrul Kayes struck his twelfth first-class ton that powered Khulna Division to a 263-run lead over Rajshahi Division in the opening day of the final round of the National Cricket League at the Sheikh Abu Naser Stadium on Monday.     

Imrul finished with 100 while Nahidul Islam made 45 to post a moderate 286 for Khulna before they were bowled out for 266 in 84.4 overs.

Nahid Rana was the pick among the bowlers scalping 5-63 while Taijul Islam and Mohor Sheikh took two wickets each.  

In reply, Rajshahi lost their opening pair for a stuttering 3-2 at stumps of day-one.

Al Amin Hossain and Md Ashiqur Zaman claimed one wicket each.

In the day’s other game at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium, Barishal Division trailed Dhaka Metro by 192-run after a 56 from the top order Fazle Hasan Rabbi before they were deposed to 211.

Apart from him no other batsmen could go beyond 40.

Rakibul Hasan was top among the bowlers claiming 4-60 and AKS Swadhin, Asadullah Galib took two each and Kazi Anik Islam, Md Sharifullah finished with one wicket each.

In reply, With Ruyel Miah striking twice as Dhaka lost their top two batsmen just for 19 at stumps.

At the Shahid Chandu Stadium, Sylhet Division trailed the table topper Rangpur Division by 2-runs at stumps.

Sent to bat, Sylhet batsmen were crushed to 107-run in 46.1 overs with Shohel Rana taking 3 and Md Mushfik Hasan, Robiul Islam scalping two-wicket each.

Pursuing a healthy total title contender Rangpur amassed 105-3 as Ebadot Hossain banged twice and Rejaur Rahman Raja took another wicket.

Mim Mosaddek and Nasir Hossain stood on 26, 27 respectively at stumps.

In the day’s fourth tie at the BKSP-3 Dhaka Division was trailing by 150-run by Chattogram Division.

Batting first, Chattogram were bowled out for a meager 203 with Sumon Khan and Shuvagata Hom Chowdhury claiming 4 wickets each.

In response, Dhaka catapulted 53, losing their opener Joyraj Sheikh by Yeasin Arafat Meshu.

Abdul Mazid and Mahidul Islam Ankon remained unbeaten on 34 and 9 respectively.