Rana's 5-for propels Tigers to level ODI series

FE Team | Published: April 20, 2026 21:38:36

A ruthless spell of fast bowling from Nahid Rana and a fluent top-order response from Tanzid Hasan powered Bangladesh to a commanding six-wicket victory over New Zealand, levelling the three-match series 1-1.
On a surface expected to favour spin, it was Bangladesh's pace attack that dictated terms, with Rana producing a career-best 5 for 32 to rip through the Black Caps' batting lineup at the Sher-e-Bangla Cricket Stadium in the city on Monday, reports bdnews24.com.
Every time the visitors attempted to rebuild, he returned to break the stand with sharp, relentless bursts of pace.
New Zealand, despite a fighting 83 from Nick Kelly, never fully recovered from the early blows.
Their innings eventually folded for 198, a total that reflected Bangladesh's sustained pressure rather than any lack of intent from the visitors.
The chase of 199 began shakily for the hosts, who slipped to 21 for 2 as William O'Rourke generated movement with the new ball. But the response was swift and decisive.
Tanzid shifted the momentum with a blazing 76 off 58 deliveries, an innings marked by authority and intent. He struck 10 boundaries and four sixes, forcing the New Zealand attack onto the back foot.
At the other end, Najmul Hossain Shanto provided stability with an unbeaten 50, anchoring a crucial 120-run partnership that effectively ended Kiwi hopes of a comeback.
Even after Tanzid fell to Jayden Lennox, the platform had been firmly laid.
Shanto and Mehidy Hasan Miraz then ensured there were no late complications, guiding Bangladesh home with more than 14 overs remaining.
Bangladesh's bowlers had seized control early and never really allowed the visitors to settle after asking them to bat first.