Rangpur Division were confirmed as champions after Sylhet Division failed to secure a must-win result against Barishal on the final day of the 27th National Cricket League (NCL) at the Rajshahi Divisional Stadium on Tuesday.
Rangpur had already put one hand on the title with a comprehensive seven- wicket win over Khulna inside three days, but their celebration was delayed as they awaited the outcome of the Sylhet-Barishal match.
Sylhet, who entered the final round as table-toppers, needed a victory to clinch back-to-back NCL titles. However, chasing a target of 320 on Day 4, they could reach only 187-5 in 59 overs, resulting in a tame draw.
Earlier, Barishal resumed the day on 212-4 and added quick runs before declaring at 294-8. Iftekhar Hossain Ifti was the standout performer, scoring an unbeaten 128 off 197 balls with 11 fours and four sixes, giving Barishal an overall lead of 319.
Tofael Ahmed took 3-55 while Abu Jayed Rahi claimed 2-52.
Despite having ample overs to chase, Sylhet never found momentum. Early wickets saw them slump to 69-4, a collapse that effectively ended their title hopes.
Veteran Mushfiqur Rahim attempted to rebuild the innings with Asadulla Al Galib, adding 85 runs for the fifth wicket, but their scoring rate remained too slow to challenge the target.
Galib remained unbeaten on 61 while Mushfiqur made 53.
Tanvir Islam and Moin Khan picked up two wickets each for Barishal. "BSS
