At a glance
- Bangladesh level the series with a dominant six-wicket win over New Zealand
- Nahid Rana stars with a match-winning 5 for 32 to dismantle NZ batting
- Tanzid Hasan powers chase with a rapid 76 in a 120-run partnership
Bangladesh produced a confident and polished display to level the ODI series against New Zealand, combining sharp bowling with assured batting to seal a six-wicket win. The hosts chased down 199 for 4 in 35.3 overs, bouncing back strongly after New Zealand claimed a 26-run win in the opening match.
The victory was built on a devastating spell from Nahid Rana and a fearless innings from Tanzid Hasan, as Bangladesh level the series and shift momentum ahead of the decider in Chattogram on Thursday.
Bangladesh 199 for 4 (Tanzid 76, Shanto 50 retd, Lennox 2-36) beat New Zealand 198 (Kelly 83, Rana 5-32 Shoriful 2-32) by six wickets. View the full scorecard here.
Rana’s Five-For Dismantles New Zealand Batting Line-Up
Rana set the tone early with a relentless burst that dismantled New Zealand’s top order. His figures of 5 for 32 underlined his growing stature, as he struck across all phases of the innings. A sharp bouncer clocked at 146 kph removed Will Young, while his control and aggression kept the visitors under pressure throughout.
New Zealand struggled to recover from the early damage. Nick Kelly stood firm with a well-made 83, forming a steady partnership with Muhammad Abbas to briefly steady the innings.
Bangladesh Level the Series as Bowlers Tighten Control in Middle Overs
Despite that resistance, Bangladesh’s bowlers maintained control. Shoriful Islam supported well with 2 for 32, while disciplined fielding added to the pressure. Rana returned to break the partnership, and the innings soon unravelled.
New Zealand were eventually bowled out for 198, a total that felt below par given the conditions.
Tanzid’s Counter-Attack Powers Chase After Early Wobble
The chase began with early setbacks as Bangladesh lost quick wickets, raising concerns of another collapse. However, Tanzid quickly shifted the momentum with a bold counter-attacking approach.
His half-century came off just 33 balls, filled with clean strikes and confident stroke-play. He dominated the bowlers, turning pressure into opportunity and lifting the tempo of the innings.
Bangladesh Level the Series with Match-Defining 120-Run Stand
Alongside him, Najmul Hossain Shanto found his rhythm and played a composed supporting role. The pair combined for a crucial 120-run partnership for the third wicket, effectively taking the game away from New Zealand.
Tanzid eventually fell for 76, but the damage had been done. Shanto reached a steady 50 before retiring hurt due to cramps, leaving the rest of the work to the middle order.
Calm Finish Seals Six-Wicket Win and Sets up Decider
Towhid Hridoy, unbeaten on 30 from 31 balls, and Mehidy Hasan Miraz ensured there were no late nerves. The pair guided Bangladesh to 199 for 4, with the winning run coming in the 36th over.
The result not only squared the series at 1-1 but also highlighted Bangladesh’s resilience and balance. With confidence restored, they now head into the final match with belief and momentum on their side.
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