Photo: Collected

DHAKA, Feb 23, 2026 (BSS) - Former Under-19 World Cup winning captain Akbar Ali marked the opening day of the Bangladesh Cricket League (BCL) one-day format with a brilliant century, continuing his rich vein of form across different levels of cricket.

Despite leading Bangladesh to Under-19 World Cup glory in 2020, Akbar has yet to cement his place in the national side, while many of his teammates from that triumphant squad have already established themselves at the highest level. 

However, his recent performances have reignited hopes of realizing his long-cherished dream soon.
Playing for North Zone under the leadership of Najmul Hossain Shanto, Akbar smashed a scintillating 111 off just 87 balls, featuring eight fours and six sixes, once again underlining his credentials as a consistent performer.

Riding on his power-packed century, North Zone posted a formidable 335 before being bowled out in the final over. Skipper Shanto contributed a composed 68, while opener Tanzid Hasan Tamim added a brisk 54 off 44 deliveries.

Opting to bat first, North Zone suffered an early setback with the dismissal of opener Habibur Rahman Sohan. Tanzid and Shanto then steadied the innings with an 82-run partnership. Nayeem Hasan broke the stand by removing Tanzid, triggering a brief collapse as Liton Das (10) and Towhid Hridoy (2) fell in quick succession.

Shanto and Akbar rebuilt the innings with an 80-run partnership for the fifth wicket, laying the foundation for a 300-plus total. While Shanto narrowly missed out on a century, Akbar dominated the bowlers, dispatching them to all parts of the ground to complete his hundred and put his side in a commanding position.