Dhaka, Bangladesh: Rain may have dampened the atmosphere at Shere Bangla National Stadium, but the New Zealand Black Caps did their best to set it ablaze, snatching a dramatic 17-run victory (D/L method) against the spirited Bangladesh Tigers in the deciding T20I clash. This pulsating win levels the three-match series at 1-1, setting the stage for a mouthwatering finale on Tuesday.
Finn Allen, the young Black Caps opener, provided the early fireworks, smashing a belligerent 52 off 32 balls to propel New Zealand to 158/7 in their allotted 20 overs. His knock, laced with five fours and three sixes, was a welcome sight for the visitors after a string of stuttering starts in the series. Ish Sodhi, the wily leg-spinner, chipped in with a tidy 2-28, showcasing the Black Caps’ bowling depth.
In reply, Bangladesh began steadily, with the experienced Shakib Al Hasan (38*) and the elegant Mushfiqur Rahim (24*) stitching together a promising partnership. The home crowd roared with anticipation as the Tigers inched closer to the target, reaching 80/2 in 11 overs. However, just as momentum swung towards Bangladesh, the heavens opened up, forcing a premature halt to the chase.
After a frantic scramble to dry the field and a lengthy delay, the rain gods, unfortunately, had the final say. With scores level on D/L after 11 overs, New Zealand were declared winners, much to the delight of the Black Caps camp and the disappointment of the Tigers fans.
The abandoned match brought an end to a see-saw series that went down to the wire. New Zealand, despite Allen’s heroics, will be concerned about their middle order, which failed to click consistently throughout the series. Bangladesh, on the other hand, can take heart from Shakib and Mushfiqur’s resilience and will look to build on their positive start in the chase with a more complete performance in the decider.
Tuesday’s encounter promises to be a T20I spectacle for the ages. Both teams are evenly matched, boasting formidable batting lineups and potent bowling attacks. With the series on the line, expect fireworks both on and off the field as the Black Caps and Tigers clash for ultimate bragging rights.
Key Stats:
- Player of the Match: Finn Allen (New Zealand) – 52 runs
- Top Scorers:
- New Zealand: Finn Allen (52), Daryl Mitchell (25)
- Bangladesh: Shakib Al Hasan (38*), Mushfiqur Rahim (24)
- Most Wickets:
- New Zealand: Ish Sodhi (2-28)
- Bangladesh: Nasum Ahmed (2-29)
