BAN vs NZ: Ajaz Patel, Glenn Phillips propel New Zealand to a remarkable victory
Until the beginning of day four, the match progressed as follows: On day one, 15 wickets fell in less than 80 overs. Day two saw no play due to rain, and on day three, 7 wickets were taken in less than 32 overs.
On day four, Bangladesh began at 38 for two with Mominul Haque and Zakir Hasan at the crease. They hoped to build partnerships for a substantial score, setting a challenging total for the Kiwis to chase in the final innings. However, Kiwi bowler Ajaz Patel, in particular, had different plans. Initially, both overnight batters looked promising and took the team total to 71 for two. However, Patel dismissed Mominul lbw as he attempted a pull shot on a ball that didn’t bounce much.
Mitchell Santner soon claimed the crucial wicket of Mushfiqur Rahim at 82. Patel then wreaked havoc, taking four more wickets, supported by Santner who took three wickets. Ajaz finished with a six-wicket haul, conceding 57 runs, and Bangladesh were all out for just 144 in their second innings. Chasing the target, the Kiwis needed 137 to level the series at 1-1.
It was not going to be easy on a pitch favouring the spinners, offering turn, bounce, and plenty of bite. The Kiwis stumbled and lost their sixth wicket with only 69 on the board, seemingly unable to chase down the target. However, the hero of the first innings, Glenn Phillips, entered the crease and was joined by Mitchell Santner. They stitched a brilliant 70-run partnership for the seventh wicket on a challenging pitch, securing a four-wicket victory for the Kiwis.
Phillips and Santner remained not out on 40 and 35, respectively, helping the Kiwis level (1-1) the series. For Bangladesh, Mehidy Hasan Miraz stood out with the ball, claiming three wickets on day four to keep his team in contention. However, ultimately, his team lost the match. After the match, losing captain Najmul Hossain Shanto praised his team’s bowlers, highlighting their excellent performance. He expressed pride in the collective fielding effort but acknowledged missed opportunities.
