New Zealand kicked off their tour of Bangladesh 2026 with a hard-fought 26-run victory over the hosts in the first ODI at the Shere Bangla National Stadium. After opting to bat first, the visitors posted a competitive total of 247/8, which ultimately proved just enough as their bowlers bundled out Bangladesh for 221 in 48.3 overs.
Steady partnerships anchor New Zealand innings
New Zealand’s innings was built on composure rather than aggression, with Henry Nicholls leading the way with a well-compiled 68 off 83 balls. He stitched crucial partnerships at the top, ensuring stability after an early wobble. While Nick Kelly struggled to get going, Will Young contributed a steady 30, and skipper Tom Latham added a quick 14 to keep the momentum ticking.
The real acceleration came through Dean Foxcroft, who played a fluent knock of 59 off 58 balls. His innings, laced with eight boundaries, gave the visitors the much-needed push in the middle overs. Contributions from Nathan Smith (21) helped New Zealand reach a respectable 247/8 at the end of their 50 overs.
Bangladesh’s bowlers kept things tight for most parts of the innings. Shoriful Islam impressed with figures of 2/27, while Taskin Ahmed and Rishad Hossain picked up two wickets each to prevent the total from going beyond reach.
Bangladesh fight hard but fall short in chase
Chasing 248, Bangladesh had a shaky start with early setbacks, including the quick dismissal of captain Najmul Hossain Shanto for a duck. However, Saif Hassan anchored the innings with a composed 57, while Litton Das added 46 to keep the chase alive.
The innings gained momentum when Towhid Hridoy played a counter-attacking knock of 55 off 60 balls. Alongside Afif Hossain’s 27, Bangladesh looked well in the hunt at one stage. However, regular wickets in the latter half derailed their progress, as the required rate crept up under pressure.
New Zealand’s bowling unit held their composure brilliantly. Blair Tickner was the standout performer with 4/40, dismantling the middle and lower order at crucial junctures. Smith provided excellent support with 3/45, while Jayden Lennox and Foxcroft chipped in with a wicket each to seal the win.
Job done in Dhaka.
Full score at https://t.co/3YsfR1Y3Sm#BANvNZ pic.twitter.com/dWTW7AYNlY
— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) April 17, 2026
