Bangladesh ‘A’ made a strong statement in the opening match of their three-match one-day series against New Zealand ‘A’, cruising to a commanding seven-wicket victory at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium.
The hosts set the tone with a clinical bowling display that dismantled the visitors for just 147 in 34.3 overs. Pacer Khaled Ahmed, who was named Player of the Match, and spinner Tanvir Islam claimed three wickets apiece, while fellow seamers Shoriful Islam and Ebadot Hossain shared the remaining four wickets equally.
New Zealand ‘A’ struggled to build any momentum with the bat, as only two of their players reached double figures. Dean Foxcroft top-scored with a resilient 72, while opener Rhys Mariu contributed 42. The pair formed the backbone of the innings, with Foxcroft forging a defiant 63-run stand for the final wicket alongside Ben Lister (4) to help the tourists scrape past the 100-run mark.
In response, Bangladesh ‘A’ chased down the target with ease, reaching 149 for 3 in just 27.2 overs. Mahidul Islam Ankon led the charge with an unbeaten 42, supported by Anamul Haque Bijoy (38) and captain Nurul Hasan Sohan (20 not out), who guided the side home with composure.
Earlier in the day, New Zealand ‘A’ had won the toss and elected to bat, a decision that quickly backfired under relentless pressure from the home bowlers.
The second match of the series is scheduled to take place at the same venue on Wednesday.