At stumps yesterday, Dhaka, set a stiff 405-run target, had reached 39 without loss.

Earlier Chittagong, who resumed their second innings on 72-1, piled up another 299 runs.

First-innings' destroyer Sabbir Khan led the way for the port city outfit smashing an unbeaten 85. It contained nine fours and six.

He grabbed five wickets as Dhaka were dismissed for 148 in response to Chittagong's 254.

Chittagong's foundation was laid by a second-wicket stand of 88 between Anisul Hakim and Faisal Hossain.

Right-hander Anisul scored 79 off 203 balls with eight hits to fence while southpaw Faisal contributed an 85-ball 49 with six boundaries.

Left-arm spinner Elias Sunny picked up four for 75.

Elsewhere, hartal supporters forced organisers at the Rangpur Cricket Gardens to abandon play in the between Rajshahi and Barisal after 32.2 overs.

Barisal, who began the penultimate day on 144-5 progressed to 175 for the loss of one wicket. Bad weather meant no play was possible on the first day.

At Jessore Salahuddin hit 64 to help holders Khulna take a vital 64-run first-innings' lead against Sylhet. They scored 245 after resuming the innings on 13-0 in reply their opponents' to 181.

Spinner Nabil captured five for 55.

When stumps were drawn Sylhet in their second innings had made 35 without disturbing the furniture.