Dunedin, December 17: In a pulsating encounter at the University Oval, New Zealand outgunned Bangladesh by 44 runs to claim victory in the opening ODI of the three-match series. In a match marked by contrasting fortunes and moments of individual brilliance, it was ultimately Will Young’s masterful century (105) and Tom Latham’s anchoring knock (51) that steered the Black Caps to a competitive 239/7 despite early jitters.
Opting to bowl first, Bangladesh got off to a dream start as Taijul Islam castled Finn Allen and Daryl Mitchell inside the power play. However, Will Young and Tom Latham steadied the ship, stitching together a crucial 129-run partnership. Young, in particular, looked in sublime touch, piercing the gaps with elegant drives and punishing the loose deliveries.
He reached his century in style, lofting a six over long-on, raising the roof of the University Oval. Following Young’s departure, Martin guptill and Tom Blundell added valuable cameos to push the total beyond 230. Shariful Islam was the pick of the Bangladeshi bowlers, claiming three wickets with his nagging line and length.
Bangladesh started brightly:- New Zealand
Chasing a challenging target, Bangladesh started brightly, with Litton Das and Najmul hossain shanto sharing a brisk 50-run stand. However, the introduction of spin proved to be Bangladesh’s undoing. Mitchell Santner and Ish sodhi spun a web around the middle order, picking up crucial wickets at regular intervals.
Mushfiqur Rahim offered some resistance with a gritty 49, but the Bangladeshi batsmen failed to build substantial partnerships, crumbling for 200 in the 30th over. Will Young, for his match-winning ton, was deservedly awarded Player of the Match honors. The victory sends a strong message to the young Bangladeshi side, while serving as a timely reminder of New Zealand’s depth and resilience.
The focus now shifts to the second ODI in Christchurch on December 20, where Bangladesh will look to bounce back and level the series.
Key Takeaways:
● Will Young’s century forms the backbone of New Zealand’s win.
● Bangladesh start well but falter after early dismissals.
● Effective spin bowling from Mitchell Santner and Ish Sodhi proved decisive.
