In a rain-hit T20I, New Zealand finally gets a win over Bangladesh to level the T20I series
In a dramatic finale marred by rain, New Zealand clawed back from the brink to snatch a 17-run victory via DLS in the final T20I against Bangladesh, evening the three-match series at Mount Maunganui.
Skipper Mitchell Santner put his bowling boots on first, wreaking havoc with a 4-16 spell that skittled Bangladesh out for a meager 110. Chasing a modest target, the Black Caps themselves stuttered initially, slumping to 49-5 thanks to Mahedi Hasan and Shoriful Islam’s fiery spells.
Just when Bangladesh sniffed victory, the heavens opened, forcing an early halt with New Zealand precariously perched 16 shy of the DLS par score. Thankfully for the hosts, their 78-run tally was ahead of the rain-adjusted target, securing a thrilling come-from-behind win and series parity.
The victory capped a rollercoaster week for both sides. Bangladesh, riding the crest of their first T20 win on Kiwi soil in Napier, looked unstoppable after claiming the ODI series 2-1. However, the washed-out second T20 and this last-gasp defeat by Black Caps left their maiden series win in New Zealand elusive.
The performance of New Zealand raises concerns because it wasn’t just an underprepared unit. All their big stars failed to impress with the bat, particularly against Bangladeshi spinners. Even in the second match, Bangladesh had the upper hand.
Bangladesh can hold their heads high because they certainly gave New Zealand a proper headache throughout the series. Once they found their way to fight back in the third ODI, they didn’t look back and remained dominant in the T20Is.
New Zealand’s middle order has appeared to struggle against spinners and pace alike. The loss in the third ODI followed by the batting collapse in the first T20I had a significant impact on their confidence. There seems to be a lack of self-belief in the batting order, a feeling of being behind in the game and vulnerable to losing wickets at any time.
With the T20 World Cup approaching, Bangladesh can take away many positives from this series. For New Zealand, however, there are several issues that need immediate attention and rectification.
With both teams using the series as a springboard for the T20 World Cup next June, this rain-soaked encounter in Mount Maunganui served as a valuable test of nerves and adaptability.
The New Zealand proved their resilience, while Bangladesh tasted the bittersweetness of coming close but falling short. As they head into the global showpiece, one thing’s for sure: this rivalry promises plenty of fireworks in the months to come.
