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In the sixth match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, New Zealand and Bangladesh clashed in a high-stakes encounter at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. New Zealand, having won their opening match against Pakistan convincingly, chose to bowl first after winning the toss, aiming to secure a semi-final spot alongside India in Group A. This decision was strategic, given the conditions and the importance of the match. For Bangladesh, it was a must-win situation to keep their hopes alive in the tournament after losing to India in their first match.
The match’s significance cannot be overstated, as a New Zealand victory would effectively eliminate both Bangladesh and hosts Pakistan from the competition, provided India also wins their remaining matches. On the other hand, a Bangladesh win would give Pakistan a slim chance of qualifying if they can beat Bangladesh convincingly in their final group match and have a better run rate than both New Zealand and Bangladesh.
Tanzid Hasan hoicks Kyle Jamieson for a thunderous six
The highlight of the early innings came in the 2nd over when Tanzid Hasan, then on 12*, faced a 141 kph delivery from Kyle Jamieson. The ball, angling into his pads, was effortlessly picked up and whipped over deep midwicket with a flick of the wrists. The timing was sublime—the bat met the ball with a crisp thwack, sending it sailing 82 meters into the stands. Commentators marvelled at the “nonchalance” of the shot, a blend of audacity and skill that left Jamieson staring at the turf in disbelief. Tanzid’s strike not only rattled New Zealand’s early momentum but also announced Bangladesh’s aggressive intent.
Here’s the video:
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Also READ: BAN vs NZ, Champions Trophy 2025: Here’s why Daryl Mitchell is not playing today’s match
Bangladesh’s rollercoaster innings: From flourish to fightback
As the match progressed, Bangladesh found themselves at 97/3 after 20.4 overs. Hasan was the first to fall, caught by Kane Williamson off Michael Bracewell for 24 runs, which included one four and two sixes. Mehidy Hasan Miraz followed, caught by Mitchell Santner off Will O’Rourke for 13 runs, including one four and one six. The third wicket to fall was Towhid Hridoy, also caught by Williamson off Bracewell for 7 runs.
At the time of Tanzid’s dismissal, Bangladesh had reached 45 runs in 8.2 overs. The powerplay saw them score 58 runs for the loss of one wicket. The innings was marked by a review in the first over, where Najmul Hossain Shanto was given not out after a review by New Zealand.
Najmul Hossain Shanto remained not out on 45 from 61 balls, with eight fours, while Mushfiqur Rahim joined him at the crease with a score of 1 from 1 ball. The run rate was steady at 4.74 runs per over, with Bangladesh needing to accelerate to post a competitive total.
The road ahead for both the teams
As the match unfolds, Bangladesh face the challenge of building a substantial total to put pressure on New Zealand. The Kiwis, with their strong batting lineup and potent bowling attack, are well-equipped to chase down any target. However, Bangladesh’s ability to surprise with their bowling, especially with the inclusion of Nahid Rana, could be a crucial factor in their quest to stay alive in the tournament. For New Zealand, securing a semi-final spot is within reach, but they must ensure they do not underestimate Bangladesh, who have shown resilience in the past.