New Zealand vs Bangladesh, 1st T20I Highlights: Bangladesh clinches a remarkable 5-wicket victory in the series opener
Mahedi, Shoriful Star As Bangla Tigers Stun Kiwis
In pursuit of a target of 135, set by New Zealand in the initial T20I at Napier, Bangladesh executed their strategy flawlessly, clinching a historic victory on Wednesday. Despite a top-order collapse, James Neesham and Mitchell Santner’s late efforts propelled New Zealand to a respectable total of 134. Bangladesh, led by Litton Das’ unbeaten 42, secured a series-opening 5-wicket triumph.
Winning the toss, Bangladesh opted to bowl first in the inaugural Twenty20 international against New Zealand at McLean Park. Mitchell Santner captains the New Zealand side in the absence of resting Kane Williamson. Tim Southee makes a return to the New Zealand lineup after being absent in the recent one-day international series, which New Zealand won 2-1 against Bangladesh. Rony Talukdar joins the Bangladesh team, having missed the one-dayers as well. This match marks the commencement of both teams’ preparations for the upcoming T20 World Cup in the United States and West Indies next year.
What a performance by Bangladesh 👏
They have taken a 1-0 lead in the three-match T20I series.#NZvBAN | 📝: https://t.co/AYk3ZsriBQ pic.twitter.com/KjfiVrnagW
— ICC (@ICC) December 27, 2023