DHAKA, Dec 8, 2025 (BSS)— Rangpur Division raised their prospects of winning the 27th National Cricket League (NCL) title with a crushing seven-wicket victory over Khulna at Shaheed Chandu Stadium today. 

With Sylhet struggling against Barishal and Mymensingh needing a miracle to beat Rajshahi, Rangpur's win has made them the outright favorites for the title.

The victory was built on a superb all-round performance in the second innings. After being bowled out for just 174 in reply to Khulna’s first-innings total of 308, Rangpur found themselves trailing by 134 runs. 

However, they bounced back strongly with the ball, thanks to a brilliant spell from pacer Mukidul Islam Mugdho, who helped dismiss Khulna for just 96 in their second innings. This set Rangpur a target of 231 runs to win.

Khulna resumed Day 3 at 41-5, hoping to extend their lead, but Mugdho's fiery bowling left them completely clueless.

Ziaur Rahman was the highest scorer for Khulna with 30, before Mugdho cleaned up the tail, finishing with 5-22 off 11 overs. He was well-supported by Shoriful Islam, who took 3-47.

Chasing 231 for victory, Rangpur lost two quick wickets early in their innings, but Iqbal steadied the ship with a brilliant knock of 114 off 142 balls, leading the team to victory in 55 overs. 

Naeem Islam added 45, while skipper Akbar Ali remained unbeaten on 32, guiding Rangpur to the target with three wickets to spare.

With their clinical performance today, Rangpur now look in pole position to claim the NCL title, with other contenders like Sylhet and Mymensingh facing uphill battles.