Champions Trophy: Bangladesh Set 237-Run Target Against New Zealand

Michael Bracewell’s 4-wicket spell dismantles Bangladesh as they struggle to 236/9 in Rawalpindi

February 24, 2025: Bangladesh posted a modest total of 236/9 in 50 overs against New Zealand in their crucial ICC Champions Trophy 2025 group-stage match at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Despite a resilient knock from Najmul Hossain Shanto (77 off 110 balls), Bangladesh’s batting lineup faltered against New Zealand’s disciplined bowling attack, particularly Michael Bracewell, who ripped through the middle order with figures of 4/26 in 10 overs.

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Bangladesh’s Inning: A Struggle for Momentum

After losing opener Tanzid Hasan (16) early to spin, Bangladesh never really gained control of their innings. Despite a few promising starts, Mushfiqur Rahim (14) and Mahmudullah (11) threw their wickets away at crucial junctures. Shanto stood tall amidst the collapse, but his slow approach meant Bangladesh failed to capitalize on the platform.

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Young all-rounder Rishad Hossain (26 off 25 balls) provided a late flourish, but Jaker Ali’s run-out (45 off 55 balls) in the penultimate over further dented Bangladesh’s hopes of a competitive total.

New Zealand’s Bowling Attack: Bracewell Leads the Charge

Bracewell was the standout performer, becoming the first Kiwi spinner since 2000 to claim a four-wicket haul in the Champions Trophy. Kyle Jamieson (1/42 in 9 overs) and Henry Shipley (2/41 in 8 overs) provided excellent support, keeping Bangladesh’s scoring rate in check.

Bangladesh’s innings was marked by 80 dot balls in the first 20 overs, reflecting their struggle to rotate strike. Despite the late acceleration, a run rate of just 4.72 means New Zealand will fancy their chances of chasing this total comfortably.

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What’s Next? Can New Zealand Seal Semi-Final Spot?

With Pakistan’s semi-final hopes hanging by a thread, this match is of significant interest. A New Zealand win would knock Pakistan out of the tournament, making this chase even more crucial. For Bangladesh, their survival in the tournament hinges on their bowlers making early inroads.

Can New Zealand chase down 237 and bolster their net run rate (NRR)? Or will Bangladesh pull off an upset to keep their semi-final hopes alive?

Stay tuned for the second innings!

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Bangladesh vs New Zealand, Champions Trophy 2025, BAN vs NZ Live Score, Michael Bracewell, Najmul Hossain Shanto, ICC Cricket, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Cricket News