📍 Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium witnessed a thrilling clash as New Zealand secured a semi-final spot in ICC Champions Trophy 2025 with a five-wicket victory over Bangladesh in their Group A encounter.
Rachin Ravindra’s Century Seals Victory for New Zealand
New Zealand confidently chased down Bangladesh’s target of 237 in the 47th over, thanks to a magnificent century by Rachin Ravindra. Despite an early setback, losing two wickets for just 15 runs, the Black Caps recovered swiftly.
Key Partnership: Ravindra stitched together a 129-run stand with Tom Latham (55), stabilizing the innings after the early losses.
Captain Kane Williamson’s Early Exit: The Kiwi skipper managed only five runs before being dismissed.
Ravindra’s Heroics: He played a match-winning knock of 112 off 105 balls, hitting 12 fours and a six.
Finishing Touches: Glenn Phillips (21*) and Michael Bracewell (11*) ensured New Zealand comfortably crossed the finish line.
🎯 For Bangladesh, bowlers Taskin Ahmed, Naheed Rana, Rishad Hossain, and Mustafizur Rahman took one wicket each but couldn’t defend the modest total.
🔗 Also read: Can Pakistan Still Qualify for the Champions Trophy Semi-Finals?
Bangladesh’s Batting Struggles Continue
After being sent in to bat first, Bangladesh got off to a steady start but failed to capitalize on their opening stand.
🔸 Solid Start: Najmul Hossain Shanto and Tanzid Hasan added 45 runs for the first wicket.
🔸 Middle-Order Collapse: The team suffered a flurry of wickets, with key batters failing to make an impact.
Tanzid Hasan – 24
Mehidy Hasan Miraz – 13
Towhid Hridoy – 7
Mushfiqur Rahim – 2
Mahmudullah – 4
Shanto Anchors the Innings: Scored a composed 77, well-supported by Zakir Ali (45).
Late Contributions: Rishad Hossain (26) and Taskin Ahmed (10) pushed Bangladesh to 236/9 in 50 overs.
🎯 For New Zealand, Michael Bracewell was the standout bowler, claiming 4 wickets, while Will O’Rourke (2), Matt Henry (1), and Kyle Jamieson (1) provided crucial breakthroughs.
Toss and Team Changes
New Zealand’s captain Mitchell Santner won the toss and opted to field first, making two changes in the playing XI.
🔹 New Zealand Changes:
✔ Kyle Jamieson replaced Nathan Smith
✔ Rachin Ravindra came in for Daryl Mitchell
🗣️ On the decision to bowl first, Santner stated,
“Batting first could have been an option, but we’re playing good cricket and ready for any challenge.”
🔹 Bangladesh Changes:
✔ Mahmudullah and pacer Naheed Rana replaced Soumya Sarkar and Tanzim Hasan
Playing XIs
New Zealand:
Mitchell Santner (c), Will Young, Devon Conway, Kane Williamson, Tom Latham, Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Matt Henry, Will O’Rourke, Kyle Jamieson.
Bangladesh:
Najmul Hossain Shanto (c), Tanzid Hasan, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Towhid Hridoy, Mushfiqur Rahim, Mahmudullah, Jaker Ali, Rishad Hossain, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Naheed Rana.
Conclusion: A Statement Win for the Kiwis
New Zealand’s composed chase and exceptional bowling performance have cemented their spot in the semi-finals of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. With momentum on their side, they now look forward to their next challenge on the road to the final.
📌 Stay tuned for more updates on the ICC Champions Trophy 2025! 🚀
🔽 What do you think? Can New Zealand go all the way and lift the trophy? Share your thoughts in the comments! 👇
Shop Perch