Bangladesh finish series level with New Zealand

Bangladesh failed to capitalize in a rain-affected decider, losing to New Zealand and missing out on a series win, as the three-match T20 series ended in a draw.

After being put in to bat at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur on Saturday, Bangladesh faced a shortened 15-over contest due to rain interruptions. Struggling under pressure from the outset, the hosts were bowled out for 102 runs in just 14.2 overs.

The batting lineup lacked consistency, with only Towhid Hridoy, Liton Das, and Saif reaching double figures. Hridoy scored 33 off 24 balls, Liton made 26 from 17 deliveries, while Saif added 16 off 11. For New Zealand, Josh Clarkson starred with the ball, picking up three wickets to dismantle Bangladesh’s innings.

Chasing a modest target of 103, New Zealand also had a shaky start, losing two wickets for just 12 runs. Early dismissals of Kante Clark and Dan Cleaver gave Bangladesh a glimpse of hope.

Tim Robinson tried to stabilize the innings with aggressive intent, but his knock of 23 off 14 balls was cut short by Shoriful Islam, reigniting the contest. Mehedi Hasan then removed Nick Kelly quickly, further raising Bangladesh’s chances.

However, that momentum did not last long. Bevon Jacobs and Dean Foxcroft took control of the chase with confident stroke play, leaving Bangladesh with no further opportunities.

Their unbroken 71-run partnership off 40 balls for the fourth wicket sealed a comfortable six-wicket victory for New Zealand with 20 balls to spare. Jacobs was the standout performer, remaining unbeaten on 62 off 31 balls and registering his maiden T20 international fifty.