Bangladesh clinched a 55-run victory over New Zealand in the third one-day international, showcasing impressive performances that sealed a 2-1 series win. This match, held in Chattogram, featured standout efforts from Najmul Hossain Shanto and Mustafizur Rahman, whose contributions were pivotal to the home team’s success.
After opting to bat first, Bangladesh set a target of 266 runs, bolstered by Shanto’s century (105) and Litton Das’s solid 76 runs. While New Zealand initially struggled, they made progress in their chase but ultimately fell short, bowled out for 210 in 44.5 overs. This outcome highlighted Bangladesh’s dominant bowling performance.
Captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz reflected on the bowling strategy, noting the challenging conditions that favored spin. He emphasized the importance of early wickets, which would give his team a significant advantage in the match.
Nick Kelly provided a moment of hope for New Zealand, contributing 59 runs before being dismissed while chasing a delivery from Rahman, who claimed five wickets for 43 runs. Despite a late charge from Dean Foxcroft, who made 75 runs, the game’s trajectory had already shifted in favor of Bangladesh.
New Zealand’s bowlers initially put Bangladesh in a precarious position, with Will O’Rourke striking twice early in the innings. However, a robust partnership between Shanto and Das helped stabilize the innings, allowing the hosts to recover from a troubling start.
The key fourth-wicket partnership of 160 runs was eventually disrupted by Jayden Lennox. He dismissed Das, paving the way for Shanto to reach his first ODI century since 2024 before he attempted to accelerate the scoring in the later stages. Shanto praised Das’s outstanding contribution during their partnership, recognizing the challenges posed by the pitch conditions.
Bangladesh ended their innings at 265 for 8, with additional contributions from Towhid Hridoy and Mehidy Hasan Miraz. New Zealand’s bowling attack managed to claim a few late wickets, but it wasn’t enough to stifle Bangladesh’s momentum.
This match followed New Zealand’s victory in the series opener, with Bangladesh leveling the series in a subsequent match. The two teams will now shift focus to a series of three Twenty20 Internationals next week in Chattogram, providing another opportunity for competitive cricket.