New Zealand captain Tom Latham decided to set a target once again, repeating his strategy from the series opener. The Kiwis decided to field an unchanged XI, showing total faith in the players who secured them a victory in the first game. Consequently, the visitors look to clinch the series with another dominant performance today.

The Return of Soumya Sarkar

Bangladesh management decided to make one crucial change to their lineup. They brought in Soumya Sarkar to replace Afif Hossain, who struggled to find his rhythm in the previous match. Afif made a slow 27 runs last time, which caused the team to lose momentum during the middle overs.

By bringing in Soumya Sarkar, Bangladesh hopes to add more experience and aggression to their top four. Therefore, the left-handed batter faces a big task to help his team level the three-match series. Meanwhile, Mustafizur Rahman continues to sit out, giving another opportunity to Shoriful Islam.

A Fresh Surface at Shere Bangla Stadium

The pitch at the Shere Bangla National Stadium is catching everyone’s attention today. Since the ground staff last used this strip for the Pakistan series in March, fast bowlers have enjoyed great success here. It has a visible grass covering, which suggests the ball might carry better to the keeper.

Because of the green surface, Bangladesh is sticking with a three-man pace attack. Shoriful Islam, Taskin Ahmed, and Nahid Rana will lead the charge for the Tigers. New Zealand seamer Nathan Smith also noted that the bounce looks much more consistent than the previous game.

Milestone for Litton Das

This match is especially significant for Bangladesh wicketkeeper-batter Litton Das. He is making his 100th ODI appearance today, joining an elite group of Bangladeshi cricketers. Furthermore, the team management believes their quick bowlers are the primary match-winners in these new, pace-friendly home conditions.

Playing XIs for the 2nd ODI:

Bangladesh: Saif Hassan, Tanzid Hasan, Towhid Hridoy, Soumya Sarkar, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Litton Das (wk), Mehidy Hasan Miraz (capt), Rishad Hossain, Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful Islam, Nahid Rana.

New Zealand: Henry Nicholls, Will Young, Nick Kelly, Dean Foxcroft, Tom Latham (capt, wk), Muhammad Abbas, Josh Clarkson, Nathan Smith, Blair Tickner, Will O’Rourke, Jayden Lennox.