New Zealand cruised to a comfortable victory over Bangladesh, securing their third consecutive win in the 2023 World Cup, at Chennai’s M. A. Chidambaram Stadium on Friday (October 13). Daryl Mitchell’s unbeaten 89* and Kane Williamson’s 78* effortlessly defied what initially appeared to be a challenging chase as they chased down a target of 246 for the loss of just two wickets. Prior to the chase, Lockie Ferguson shone with bowling figures of 3/49.
Bangladesh’s innings got off to a disastrous start as Litton Das was dismissed on the very first ball of the match by Trent Boult. In the eighth over, Ferguson removed the other opener, Tanzid Hasan, who flicked the ball to Devon Conway at square leg. After the first powerplay, Bangladesh found themselves at 46/2 with both openers back in the pavilion.
Miraz showed promise but was undone by Ferguson’s pace when he attempted a pull shot, giving a straightforward catch to Matt Henry. In the 13th over, Glenn Phillips dismissed Najmul Hossain Shanto, as Bangladesh struggled at 56/4 inside 15 overs.
With the team in dire need of a partnership, skipper Shakib Al Hasan and Mushfiqur Rahim stepped up. They built a solid partnership of 96 runs, taking Bangladesh to 152 before Shakib was caught by Ferguson for 40 off 51 balls while attempting a pull shot. Mushfiqur, well-set at 66 off 75 balls, was then bowled by Henry. After Mushfiqur’s dismissal, Mahmudullah played a crucial role with a knock of 41, helping Bangladesh reach a competitive score.
With the ball in hand, although Mustafizur Rahman and Shoriful Islam started well by bowling in the right areas, they couldn’t maintain the pressure. The spin duo of Shakib Al Hasan and Mehidy Hasan Miraz did their best to control the run rate but struggled to find success against the New Zealand batters. Taskin Ahmed leaking runs never helped Bangladesh’s cause to defend the target.
For New Zealand, Mitchell looked in imperious touch right through the innings as he took on the spinners. Williamson, the New Zealand skipper, too, employed good footwork. Eventually, he retired hurt with a thumb problem. Devon Conway also chipped in with a fine 45.