NZ Beat BAN by 26 Runs: Nicholls & Foxcroft Shine in 1st ODI

DHAKA: New Zealand secured a 26-run win over Bangladesh in the 1st ODI at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series on Friday.

Batting first, New Zealand posted 247 for 8 after recovering from an early setback. Henry Nicholls led the effort with 68. Alongside him, Dean Foxcroft added 59 in a steady partnership that rebuilt the innings. Contributions in the middle overs ensured the visitors had a competitive total on a surface that slowed as the match progressed.

Bangladesh’s bowlers made early inroads, with Shoriful Islam removing Will Young and Taskin Ahmed maintaining pressure through tight spells. However, they were unable to prevent New Zealand from stabilising through the middle phase.

Bangladesh Fall Short in Chase

Chasing 248, Bangladesh began positively with Saif Hassan and Litton Das adding useful runs at the top. Saif reached 55 while Litton contributed 46, but both fell at key moments as the required rate climbed.

New Zealand’s bowlers kept control during the middle overs, with Ish Sodhi applying pressure through disciplined spells. Continuous wickets disrupted Bangladesh’s momentum. In the end, the lower order left with too much to do. However, Towhid Hridoy (55) tried his best to take the game to the end, but with less to no support he fell short. 

New Zealand Control Key Moments

Stand-in captain Tom Latham managed his resources effectively. He rotated bowlers to break partnerships and limit scoring opportunities. Bangladesh were eventually bowled out for 221 in the 49th over. Home side fell short despite a late effort from the tail.

The result gives New Zealand an early advantage in the ODI series. Now, the second match is scheduled at the same venue on April 20.