New Zealand Thumps Bangladesh by 5 Wickets, Secures Semifinal Spot Alongside India

New Zealand clinched a commanding five-wicket victory over Bangladesh in a Group A match of the ICC Champions Trophy, securing their semifinal berth alongside India. The result, sealed late Monday at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, knocked out Bangladesh and hosts Pakistan, both pointless after two losses, from the knockout race.

Bangladesh, opting to bat, posted 236/9 in 50 overs. Skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto’s 77 and Jaker Ali’s 45 offered resistance, but Michael Bracewell’s stellar 4/26, including key scalps like Mushfiqur Rahim (2) and Towhid Hridoy (7), kept them in check. William O’Rourke supported with 2/48.

Chasing 237, New Zealand reached 240/5 in 46.1 overs, with 23 balls remaining. Rachin Ravindra’s brilliant 112 anchored the chase, while Tom Latham’s 55 ensured stability. Devon Conway chipped in with 30, overpowering a toothless Bangladesh attack led by Taskin Ahmed (1/28).

India and New Zealand, with four points each, top Group A. Their February 27 clash in Dubai will determine the group winner, while Pakistan and Bangladesh play a consolation match in Rawalpindi. The semifinals loom on March 4 and 5, with the final set for March 9 in Lahore, promising more thrilling cricket ahead.

Pic credit PTI.