Bangladesh register dominant win in must-win clash, level series

In a high-pressure must-win encounter, Bangladesh turned tension into triumph with a commanding performance. At Mirpur, the hosts defeated New Zealand by 6 wickets, not only securing victory but also leveling the three-match ODI series.

After a 26-run defeat in the first ODI, Bangladesh had no option but to win the second match. Rising to the challenge, Mehedi Hasan Miraz’s side delivered brilliantly. After bowling out New Zealand for 198, they chased down the target in style with 87 balls and 6 wickets in hand.

Chasing 199, Bangladesh started aggressively but lost momentum early. Saif Hassan began with two boundaries in the first over but departed for 8 runs. Soumya Sarkar also failed to convert his start, scoring just 8. However, Tanzid Hasan Tamim and Najmul Hossain Shanto built a crucial 120-run partnership that shifted the match in Bangladesh’s favor. Tamim played a fluent 76 off 58 balls before getting out, while Shanto retired hurt after scoring a well-made 50.

Earlier, after opting to bat first, New Zealand were under pressure from the start. Bangladesh struck twice inside the powerplay, taking control of the match early. Nahid Rana’s pace and precision dismantled the Kiwi top order, while Soumya Sarkar and Shoriful Islam also chipped in with key breakthroughs to keep the pressure on.

At one stage, Nick Kelly and Muhammad Abbas tried to stabilize the innings with a partnership, but it did not last long. Kelly scored a fighting 83 before falling, triggering a collapse in the New Zealand batting lineup. In the end, Nahid Rana claimed his fifth wicket as New Zealand were bowled out for 198 in 48.4 overs. Bangladesh then comfortably chased down the target to seal a convincing victory.