The 27th National Cricket League (NCL) got underway today with an explosive start in Rajshahi, where Chattogram Division piled up a commanding 401 runs on the opening day against Rajshahi Division at the Rajshahi Divisional Stadium.

Mahmudul Hasan Joy and Yasir Ali led the charge for Chattogram with brilliant centuries. Joy crafted a composed 127 off 165 balls, while Yasir played a fluent knock of 129 from 138 deliveries. Later, Irfan Shukkur's quickfire 72 off 63 balls added vital lower-order runs to take Chattogram past the 400 mark in 82.3 overs.

For Rajshahi, spinner Taijul Islam toiled hard and emerged as the top wicket-taker, claiming 4 for 157. Asaduzzaman and S M Mehrob chipped in with two wickets each.

Rajshahi had a shaky start in reply, losing two wickets in just five overs before stumps. They ended the day at 1 for 2, with Sabbir Hosan unbeaten alongside Md Rahim Ahmed. Hasan Murad picked up both wickets for Chattogram.