Kelly ton keeps New Zealand ‘A’ on the prowl

Nick Kelly of New Zealand 'A' hit an unbeaten 117 on day three of the first of two four-day matches at Sylhet International Cricket Stadium on Friday to keep the visitors in front against Bangladesh 'A'.

Khaled Ahmed struck early in the third over to remove Rhys Mariu for six before Kelly and opener Joe Carter strung together a 90-run stand.

Carter had to retire hurt before Bangladesh made inroads, as Hasan Murad picked up three quick wickets. He enticed Mo Abbas down the wicket and got him stumped before castling Matt Boyle for two. Mahmudul Hasan Joy then took a brilliant catch at slip to remove Josh Clarkson for five.

Carter returned after the fall of four wickets, while Kelly completed his ton off 168 deliveries. Nayeem Hasan accounted for Carter after a 138-ball 58 before the day's proceedings came to a close due to bad light, with New Zealand 'A' on 216 for five.

Earlier, Bangladesh 'A' scored 268 in their first innings. The visitors hold a 204-run lead with an enticing day four on the cards.