Barisal in command

Barisal ensured their first point in the Ispahani Mirzapore 4th National Cricket League when they took a first innings lead of 135 runs against Sylhet at the Fatullah Stadium yesterday. On the third day of the four-day match, Sylhet, resuming on 201 for eight in reply to Barisal's 347, were all out for 212 in 90.4 overs.

Barisal spinner Nadif Chowdhury led the attack with five wickets for 62 runs from his 28 overs.

Barisal then scored 169 for nine in their second innings at close, taking an overall lead of 304 already.

In the day's other match, Dhaka earned an 86-run first innings lead over Chittagong to keep their hopes alive in the title race.

Resuming the day on 231 for five in reply to Dhaka's first innings 376, Chittagong lost their last five wickets for 59 runs as they were bowled out for 290.

Dhaka's new ball bowler Anwar Hossain Monir ripped through the Chittagong middle-order to finish with six for 58.

Dhaka, in their second innings, scored 66 for one at stumps.