Bangladesh national cricket team clinched a memorable ODI series victory over New Zealand national cricket team after securing a 55-run win in the third and final match, played in Chattogram.
With this victory, Bangladesh sealed the three-match series 2–1, delivering one of their most impressive performances against a strong New Zealand side in recent times.
Winning the toss, New Zealand opted to field first, but the decision quickly backfired as Bangladesh built a strong batting foundation. Skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto led from the front with a brilliant century, scoring 105 runs off a composed innings that anchored the hosts’ total.
He was well supported by experienced batter Litton Das, who added a fluent 76 runs, helping Bangladesh post a competitive total of 265 for 8 in their 50 overs.
For New Zealand, the bowling attack saw mixed success. Will O’Rourke claimed three wickets, while Ben Lister and Jaden Lennox picked up two wickets each, and Dean Foxcroft chipped in with one.
Chasing 266, the visitors struggled to build momentum against disciplined Bangladeshi bowling. Despite a fighting 75 from Foxcroft and a solid 59 from Nick Kelly, the innings collapsed under pressure.
The turning point came through the brilliant spell of Mustafizur Rahman, who ripped through the New Zealand batting lineup with a five-wicket haul. His variations and accuracy proved too difficult for the visitors to handle on a slowing pitch.
Supporting him, Nahid Rana and Mehidy Hasan Miraz took two wickets each, while Shoriful Islam added one to complete the demolition job.
New Zealand were eventually bowled out for 210 in 44.5 overs, handing Bangladesh a comprehensive series-clinching win and sparking celebrations among home fans.
The result marks a significant confidence boost for Bangladesh as they continue building momentum in international cricket.
