Sports Desk:

Bangladesh all-rounder Afif Hossain produced a stunning spell of off-spin to claim his maiden first-class hat-trick for Khulna Division against Barishal Division on the second day of the National Cricket League opener.

After falling for a golden duck earlier in the match, the 26-year-old redeemed himself in spectacular fashion, returning figures of 6 for 21 in 10.5 overs at the Khulna Divisional Stadium on Sunday.

Afif wrapped up Barishal’s first innings in dramatic style, removing the final three batters in successive deliveries. He trapped Shamsul Islam Anik leg-before with the first ball of the 42nd over, pinned Yasir Arafat Mishu LBW with the next delivery, and then struck Ruyel Mia on the pads to complete the hat-trick — sparking jubilation among his teammates.

With this feat, Afif became the 19th Bangladeshi bowler to take a hat-trick in first-class cricket. Among the previous 18, Elias Sunny, Sohag Gazi, and Mohammad Ashraful each boast two hat-tricks.

Before the hat-trick burst, Afif had already dismissed Salman Hossain Emon, Shamsur Rahman Shuvo, and Fazle Mahmud Rabbi — securing his second five-wicket haul in the format. His previous best figures, 7 for 66, came against Rajshahi in the 2018 NCL.

Barishal were bundled out for just 126 runs in reply to Khulna’s 313, prompting the hosts to enforce the follow-on. Barishal were batting again at the time of filing this report.