Central Zone, North Zone win

Walton Central Zone and BCB North Zone claimed victories on the opening day of the Independence Cup, the 50-over version of the Bangladesh Cricket League, in Sylhet on Sunday.

Central Zone beat Islami Bank East Zone by 22 runs in a low-scoring match, whereas North Zone registered an easy victory by eight wickets over BCB South Zone.

Batting first, Central Zone were bowled out for just 177, as none of their batsmen managed to score past 50. Mohammad Mithun top-scored with 37, and Shakib Al Hasan scored 35.

In reply, East Zone were bowled out for just 155. Rony Talukdar top-scored with 38, whereas Shakib, Hasan Murad, and Soumya Sarkar picked up two wickets each for Central Zone. Skipper Mosaddek Hossain, who was adjudged player of the match, picked up a wicket but gave away only 13 runs in his 10 overs.

In the other match, South Zone were bundled out for 162 as Sunzamul Islam and Shafiqul Islam picked three wickets each. In reply, North Zone chased down the total with ease as Parvez Hossain Emon and Naeem Islam struck fifties. – TBP