The National Cricket League (NCL) is entering its most decisive and suspenseful phase as the final round begins. Sylhet Division, who lifted their maiden championship title only last season, once again find themselves in pole position. Standing proudly at the top of the points table, they are on the verge of securing back-to-back titles. Their final challenge is a crucial encounter against Barishal Division. A win in Rajshahi will confirm Sylhet as champions. Anything less—whether a draw or a defeat—will unleash a complicated calculation of points, bonuses and tiebreakers.
However, Sylhet’s confidence has been shaken by an unexpected setback. Three of their leading pace bowlers—Rejaur Rahman, Khaled Ahmed and Ebadot Hossain—are unavailable due to injury and personal matters. Their absence ahead of such a ‘must-win’ fixture could have been a heavy blow. Despite this, head coach Rajin Saleh remains optimistic. Speaking to the media, he emphasised the team’s unity and dedication: “Young or senior, every player in this team is committed. The environment within our camp is special. Every one of them carries Sylhet in their heart.”
If Sylhet stumble, the team best placed to take advantage is Mymensingh, participating in the National Cricket League for the very first time, having replaced Dhaka Metro this season. Their journey has been extraordinary given the circumstances—they were required to begin the tournament with only a single day of preparation. Yet they have surprised many by maintaining impressive consistency throughout the campaign.
Mymensingh enter the final round just two points behind Sylhet. Their last match, against Rajshahi, could become the most significant fixture of their debut season. Reflecting on the team’s remarkable progress, head coach Nazmul Hossain said, “We tried to build a strong bond by spending more time together—during training, at the hotel and at the ground. We supported the players through good moments and difficult situations. That unity is our biggest strength.”
The competition is far from limited to these two teams. Rangpur, Khulna, Chattogram and Barishal—each with two victories from six matches—also remain mathematically in contention for the title. They will require favourable results elsewhere, but the possibility keeps the league wide open. The final round is therefore expected to be filled with intensity, unpredictability and dramatic twists.
NCL Points Table:
| Team | M | W | L | D | Bonus | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sylhet | 6 | 2 | 0 | 4 | 2 | 26 |
| Mymensingh | 6 | 2 | 0 | 4 | 0 | 24 |
| Rangpur | 6 | 2 | 1 | 3 | 1 | 23 |
| Khulna | 6 | 2 | 1 | 3 | 0 | 22 |
| Chattogram | 6 | 2 | 3 | 1 | 1 | 19 |
| Barishal | 6 | 2 | 3 | 1 | 0 | 18 |
| Rajshahi | 6 | 1 | 4 | 1 | 0 | 10 |
| Dhaka | 6 | 0 | 1 | 5 | 0 | 10 |
Points System:
• Win: 8 points
• Draw: 2 points each
• Tie: 4 points each
Bonus Points:
• Win by an innings: +1
• Win by 10 wickets: +1
• Two consecutive wins: +1
• Three consecutive wins: +2
• Four consecutive wins: +3
• Five consecutive wins: +4
• Six consecutive wins: +5
If teams finish level on points:
Most wins
Fewest defeats
Head-to-head points
Most opposition wickets taken
Highest total runs scored
Final Round Fixtures:
| Match | Venue |
|---|---|
| Sylhet vs Barishal | Rajshahi |
| Mymensingh vs Rajshahi | Sylhet |
| Dhaka vs Chattogram | Mirpur |
| Rangpur vs Khulna | Bogura |
With every ball holding the potential to reshape the table, the NCL’s final round promises a dramatic finish.
