Bangladesh and New Zealand are set to clash in an ODI series, shifting gears from their recent Test match encounter. The series opener takes place in Dunedin, marking Bangladesh’s chance to rewrite their dismal ODI history against the Kiwis on New Zealand soil.
1. Najmul Hossain Shanto’s Captaincy Debut Overseas
Najmul Hossain Shanto, recently appointed as Bangladesh’s full-time captain across formats, faces his first overseas challenge. Leading the team in New Zealand adds an extra layer of difficulty, considering Bangladesh’s winless streak of 16 ODIs on New Zealand grounds. Shanto’s leadership will be crucial in steering Bangladesh to a historic victory.
2. Bangladesh’s ODI Record in New Zealand
Since 2007, Bangladesh has never secured an ODI victory against New Zealand in New Zealand. Breaking this trend is a primary goal for the visiting team. However, their Test match triumph in Mount Maunganui during the last tour provides motivation for a potential turnaround.
3. New Zealand’s Squad Dynamics
New Zealand enters the series with several key players rested, setting the stage for emerging talents to shine. With Kane Williamson, Tim Southee, and others taking a break, younger players have the opportunity to make a mark at the beginning of a new World Cup cycle.
4. Injuries and Unavailability
The Kiwis continue to grapple with injuries, with players like Michael Bracewell, Matt Henry, Lockie Ferguson, and James Neesham unavailable. Trent Boult is also absent. This opens the door for the next generation of Black Caps to step up and secure victory in the series.
5. Venue: University Oval, Dunedin
The series kicks off at the University Oval in Dunedin, known for providing assistance to new-ball bowlers. Recent matches here have favored bowlers like Trent Boult and Tim Southee, with the hosts emerging victorious.
6. Team News: New Zealand
New Zealand’s squad includes potential debutants like Josh Clarkson, Will O’Rourke, and Adi Ashok. Kyle Jamieson is unavailable due to hamstring stiffness, providing an opportunity for 22-year-old fast bowler Will O’Rourke to make his debut. Ish Sodhi is only available for the first game, with Adi Ashok likely to replace him for the remainder of the series.
Probable XI: Rachin Ravindra, Fin Allen, Will Young, Tom Latham, Mark Chapman, Henry Nicholls, Josh Clarkson, Ish Sodhi, Jacob Duff, Adam Milne, William O’Rourke/Ben Sears
7. Team News: Bangladesh
Bangladesh faces decisions at the top of the order, choosing between Anamul Haque and Tanzid Hasan. The fast bowling department may see the inclusion of either Hasan Mahmud or Tanzim Sakib alongside Shoriful Islam and Mustafizur Rahman.
Probable XI: Anamul Haque/Tanzid Hasan, Soumya Sarkar, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Litton Das, Mushfiqur Rahman, Towhid Hridoy, Mehidy Hasan, Afif Hossain, Hasan Mahmud/ Tanzim Shakib, Shoriful Islam, Mustafizur Rahman
8. Captain’s Perspective: Najmul Hossain Shanto
“As a team, we look to win this series. We have a very good team, and last year we won one Test match here. So another goal this time is if we can win the series, it will be good for our team.” – Najmul Hossain Shanto, Bangladesh captain
9. Anticipated Playing Conditions
Expect some swing and assistance for bowlers, especially with the new ball. The previous matches at University Oval witnessed victories for the team batting first as well as chasing.
In conclusion, Bangladesh aims for redemption, eyeing a breakthrough ODI victory against New Zealand in their backyard. As the series unfolds, cricket enthusiasts eagerly await an exciting clash between these two competitive sides.
Also Read – Indian Women’s Cricket Team Creates History, Breaks World Record With Test Win Against England