New Zealand maintained their unbeaten streak with an eight-wicket victory against Bangladesh in ODI 11 of the ongoing 2023 World Cup in Chennai, on Friday. Chasing a target of 246 runs, New Zealand reached 248/2 in 42.5 overs, thanks to an unbeaten knock of 89 runs off 67 balls by Daryl Mitchell. Meanwhile, Kane Williamson retired hurt after scoring 78 runs off 107 balls.
Initially, Mushfiqur Rahim scored a gritty half-century which helped Bangladesh post 245/9 in 50 overs. The wicketkeeper-batter hit 66 runs off 75 balls, including 6 fours and 2 sixes. Meanwhile, Shakib Al Hasan scored 40 off 51 balls, which included 3 fours and 2 sixes. Mahmudullah provided a strong finish for his side, playing an unbeaten knock of 41 off 49 balls, with 2 fours and 2 sixes.
For New Zealand, Lockie Ferguson took a three-wicket haul, while Trent Boult and Matt Henry took 2 wickets each.
Highlights:
- New Zealand reached 248/2 in 42.5 overs, winning by 8 wickets.
- Kane Williamson retired hurt for 78.
- Daryl Mitchell scored an unbeaten half-century.
- Kane Williamson registered a half-century.
- Shakib Al Hasan dismissed Devon Conway for 45.
- Mustafizur Rahman dismissed Rachin Ravindra for 9 during New Zealand’s chase.
- Bangladesh posted 245/9 in 50 overs.
- Matt Henry dismissed Mushfiqur Rahim for 66.
- Mushfiqur Rahim scored a half-century for Bangladesh.
- Lockie Ferguson and Trent Boult decimated Bangladesh’s top order, which collapsed to 56/4 in 12.1 overs.
- Kane Williamson won the toss and opted to bowl against Bangladesh in Chennai.
- New Zealand boasts an unblemished record against Bangladesh in ODI World Cup encounters, with 5 victories in as many matches since 1999.
- The Chennai pitch is expected to favor spin, making Bangladesh’s spin trio—Shakib Al Hasan, Mehidy Hasan, and Mahedi Hasan—crucial in their quest to potentially upset New Zealand.
- New Zealand has enjoyed a flying start in the World Cup, securing dominant wins over England and the Netherlands. Bangladesh, after a convincing win against Afghanistan, faced a setback in their previous match against England.
Bonus Information:
The 2023 Cricket World Cup is part of the international cricket championship. The format of the tournament and the number of teams participating can vary from one World Cup to another. The conditions in Chennai are known to assist spin bowlers due to the dry and slow nature of the pitch, which can be advantageous for teams with strong spin bowling line-ups.
Back Story:
The World Cup has a rich history of showcasing some of the best talents in cricket from around the world. Teams like New Zealand have been known for their consistent performances in past tournaments. Bangladesh, on the other hand, has been seen as an underdog but has had moments where they have punched above their weight, especially in conditions favoring spin bowling.
Similar Instances:
In past World Cups, there have been instances where teams with an unbeaten streak have gone on to win the tournament, such as Australia in 2003 and 2007. Similarly, there have been numerous occasions where spin bowlers have played pivotal roles in matches played in the subcontinent.
Interesting Facts:
- New Zealand’s cricket team has been one of the more successful teams in World Cups, consistently reaching the knockout stages.
- Bangladesh’s cricket team has been improving over the years, with significant wins in major tournaments, indicating a growing prowess in international cricket.
- Spin bowlers often have a higher impact in matches played in the Indian subcontinent due to the favorable pitch conditions.
