Champions Trophy: New Zealand Chooses to Bowl First Against Bangladesh in Crucial Match
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Synopsis
In a pivotal Champions Trophy match, New Zealand won the toss and opted to bowl first against Bangladesh at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Both teams made two changes from their previous games as they vie for a spot in the knockout stages.
Key Takeaways
- New Zealand won the toss and elected to bowl first.
- Bangladesh must win to avoid elimination.
- New Zealand's strong start includes a victory over Pakistan.
- Both teams made two changes to their lineups.
- Bangladesh has historically struggled against New Zealand.
Rawalpindi, Feb 24 (NationPress) New Zealand has won the toss and chosen to bowl first in the Champions Trophy Group A match against Bangladesh at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Both teams have made two changes each from their opening matches.
For the Kiwis, Kyle Jamieson replaces Nathan Smith, and Rachin Ravindra, who missed their first game due to a head injury, comes in for the ill Daryl Mitchell.
The Black Caps began their tournament strongly, achieving a 60-run victory over Pakistan. With a solid net run rate of 1.20, another win would nearly secure their advancement to the knockout phase.
Kiwi captain Mitchell Santner mentioned that dew influenced their decision to bowl and anticipates that the pitch will improve as the match progresses.
“We have trained at various grounds, but dew could be a factor here. It appears to be a great wicket, likely to become even better for batting. Two changes today - Kyle Jamieson replaces Nathan Smith, and Rachin Ravindra returns,” said Santner during the toss.
For Bangladesh, the situation is straightforward - they must win to avoid elimination. Led by Najmul Hossain Shanto, they faced a six-wicket loss against India in their first match and currently sit third in the group with a net run rate of -0.408. A defeat here would severely diminish their chances of reaching the semifinals. Soumya Sarkar and Tanzid Shakib were dropped, replaced by Mahmudullah and pace bowler Nahid Rana.
Bangladesh has secured only 11 victories in 45 ODIs against New Zealand, while the Black Caps have dominated with 33 wins. One match ended without a result.
Historically, New Zealand has a stronghold in this matchup, but Bangladesh can draw confidence from their memorable victory in the 2017 Champions Trophy, where they eliminated the Black Caps from the tournament. A similar upset is crucial if they wish to keep their semifinal hopes alive.
Playing XIs
New Zealand: Will Young, Devon Conway, Kane Williamson, Rachin Ravindra, Tom Latham(w), Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner(c), Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, William O'Rourke.
Bangladesh: Tanzid Hasan, Najmul Hossain Shanto(c), Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Towhid Hridoy, Mushfiqur Rahim(w), Mahmudullah, Jaker Ali, Rishad Hossain, Taskin Ahmed, Nahid Rana, Mustafizur Rahman.
