Bangladesh Stuns New Zealand, Sets New Record

Photo Collected

A+ A A-

**Bangladesh Secures Historic T20 Victory Against New Zealand in Chittagong**

CHITTAGONG, Bangladesh – Bangladesh achieved a significant milestone in T20 international cricket Monday, chasing down a challenging total of 182 with six wickets to spare against New Zealand in the series opener held at the Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium. This marks the highest successful run chase by Bangladesh against the Kiwis in the shortest format of the game, surpassing their previous best of 135.

The touring New Zealand side, after winning the toss, posted a formidable 182-6 in their allotted 20 overs. Their innings was anchored by strong performances from openers Katene Clarke and Dane Cleaver, both of whom registered half-centuries. Captain Nick Kelly and Josh Clarkson also contributed crucial runs to propel New Zealand to a commanding total on the batting-friendly Chittagong pitch. The visitors looked set for an even higher score, reaching 100 runs before the completion of the tenth over with only one wicket down, and maintaining a swift scoring rate despite subsequent dismissals.

In response, Bangladesh’s pursuit of the target began with an aggressive opening partnership. The Tigers accumulated 44 runs within the powerplay, showcasing a determined approach. Opener Saif Hassan departed after a brisk 17 off 16 balls in the sixth over. Captain Litton Das contributed 21 runs from 15 deliveries before being clean bowled in the ninth over while attempting a pull shot.

The middle order then took charge, with Towhid Hridoy and Parvez Hossain Emon forming a pivotal partnership that reignited Bangladesh’s hopes. Emon provided a vital cameo of 28 runs from 14 balls, injecting momentum into the chase before falling in the 15th over. This partnership was instrumental in keeping Bangladesh on track for a successful pursuit of the record-breaking target. The bowlers for Bangladesh included Rishad Hossain, who claimed two wickets, supported by single wickets from Shoriful Islam, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, and Mahedi Hasan.