Naim Misses Century as Bangladesh 'A' Posts Strong Start Against New Zealand 'A'

Mohammad Naim Sheikh narrowly missed out on a well-deserved century on the opening day of the second four-day unofficial Test between Bangladesh 'A' and New Zealand 'A'. In sublime form and racing toward a ton, Naim was dismissed for 82 after a spectacular catch by Foxcroft, halting his innings prematurely.

Opening alongside Anamul Haque Bijoy, Naim helped Bangladesh 'A' to a dominant start. The duo put on a 130-run opening partnership, giving the hosts a solid foundation. Naim’s innings of 82 off 94 balls included 10 boundaries and 2 sixes. Unfortunately, in the very next over following Naim’s dismissal, Bijoy also fell just short of his fifty, scoring 48 off 97 deliveries with 5 fours and a six.

Following the quick departure of both openers, Saif Hassan and Zakir Hasan took charge to stabilize the innings. At stumps on Day 1, Bangladesh 'A' stood at 180 for 2 after 45 overs, with Saif unbeaten on 24 and Zakir on 19.

Earlier in the day, Bangladesh 'A' skipper Nurul Hasan Sohan won the toss and opted to bat first, aiming to level the two-match series after a 70-run defeat in the first unofficial Test in Sylhet. The Tigers must win this match to avoid a series loss.