New Zealand target series-clinching win in second ODI against Bangladesh

KUALA LUMPUR: New Zealand will go into Monday’s second one-day international against Bangladesh with a 1-0 lead in the three-match series after securing a 26-run win in the opening match.

The tourists, despite fielding what was described as a relatively under-strength side, handled key moments well in the first ODI and took control of the contest. Their display underlined the depth in the squad and their ability to respond effectively in pressure situations.

Bangladesh, meanwhile, head into the second match looking for a stronger batting performance after a slow effort with the bat proved costly in the series opener. New Zealand adjusted better to the conditions in the first game, particularly on a surface that became slower as the match went on.

How the pitch behaves again is expected to be an important factor in the second ODI, especially under the mid-morning sun and later under lights, with both teams likely to assess whether the surface changes as the game progresses.

New Zealand’s batting and bowling click in opener

New Zealand’s top order is expected to remain central to their plans, with Henry Nicholls, Nick Kelly, Will Young and captain Tom Latham seen as key figures. Nicholls made an important half-century in the first ODI at a time when his side needed stability, while Young looked assured against spin at the top of the order.

Dean Foxcroft also made a significant contribution in the middle order, using fluent strokeplay to help New Zealand post what proved to be a competitive total. Contributions from the lower order then helped the visitors finish strongly, which turned out to be a decisive element in the match.

With the ball, New Zealand were disciplined throughout. Nathan Smith made the early breakthrough with two wickets in successive deliveries, putting Bangladesh under immediate pressure. Jayden Lennox and Blair Tickner then kept things tight in the middle overs, limiting scoring opportunities and stopping the hosts from building momentum.

Latham’s management of his bowling options also proved effective whenever Bangladesh attempted to increase the scoring rate.

Bangladesh seek batting improvement

Bangladesh’s main concern from the first ODI was inconsistency with the bat. The early dismissals of Tanzid Hasan and Najmul Hossain Shanto left the side in trouble, although Saif Hassan and Litton Das briefly revived the chase through a 93-run stand for the third wicket.

However, neither batter was able to turn that start into a decisive innings. The scoring rate then slowed considerably in the middle overs. Towhid Hridoy and Afif Hossain were unable to accelerate during a 13-over period that stalled the innings and added pressure on the lower order.

That slowdown left Bangladesh with too much to do late in the chase and too few wickets in hand, leading to a collapse as New Zealand closed out the match.

New Zealand now have the chance to wrap up the series in the second ODI, while Bangladesh need a more consistent batting display to stay alive in the contest and draw level.