- December 28, 2023
The first Twenty20 International Bangladesh vs New Zealand was an absolutely fascinating spectacle. The match developed into an exciting contest of skill, made more intense by the collision of bat and ball. Let us examine in detail the outstanding performances that unquestionably shaped and defined the final result of this suspenseful and intense cricket contest.
New Zealand’s Top Performers:
James Neesham
James Neesham
James Neesham exhibited his aggressive prowess with the bat, scoring a blistering 48 runs off 29 balls. Neesham’s innings, characterized by a strike rate of 165.51, was a display of controlled aggression. His ability to find the boundary ropes (4 fours and 3 sixes) played a pivotal role in setting a competitive total for New Zealand.
Mitchell Santner
Mitchell Santner
Mitchell Santner played a vital role in shoring up the New Zealand innings, contributing 23 runs off 22 balls. While not as explosive as Neesham, Santner’s steady innings featured 2 boundaries and showcased his ability to anchor the middle order. With a strike rate of 104.54, Santner ensured the innings maintained momentum.
James Neesham’s Bowling
Neesham didn’t just shine with the bat; he also made a meaningful impact with the ball. In his solitary over, he claimed a wicket, conceding just 7 runs. Neesham’s tidy bowling figures of 1/7, coupled with an impressive economy rate of 7.00, showcased his all-round abilities and added value to the New Zealand bowling attack.
Bangladesh’s Top Performers:
Litton Das
Litton Das
Litton Das played a captain’s knock, remaining unbeaten with 42 runs off 36 balls. His innings, adorned with 2 boundaries and a towering six, displayed resilience and composure. Das’s unbeaten vigil anchored the Bangladesh innings and ensured a competitive total was posted on the board.
Soumya Sarkar
Soumya Sarkar
Soumya Sarkar’s aggressive intent at the top of the order provided Bangladesh with an electrifying start. Scoring 22 runs off 15 balls, Sarkar’s innings featured a boundary and a six, setting the tone for the innings. His strike rate of 146.66 reflected his aggressive approach, putting the New Zealand bowlers on the back foot early on.
Shoriful Islam
Shoriful Islam
The standout bowler for Bangladesh was Shoriful Islam, who scalped three crucial wickets for just 26 runs in his four-over spell. His best bowling figures of 3/26 showcased his ability to break through the New Zealand batting lineup. With an average of 8.66 and an impressive economy rate of 6.50, Shoriful played a pivotal role in restricting the opposition.
In a nail-biting encounter in Napier, Litton Das emerged as the savior for Bangladesh. While the target of 135 seemed daunting at first, Litton’s composure at the crease proved invaluable. As wickets tumbled around him, he remained the bedrock of Bangladesh’s innings. However, it was his dynamic partnership with Mahedi Hasan that truly turned the tide. Together, they showcased resilience and determination, propelling Bangladesh to a memorable victory and securing a 1-0 lead in the three-match T20I series against New Zealand.