24/02/25 | 10:43 am | Champions Trophy | nz vs ban

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Champions Trophy 2025: New Zealand eye semi-final spot in clash against Bangladesh in Rawalpindi

Mitchell Santner-led New Zealand will take on Bangladesh in their second Group A match of the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy 2025 at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Monday.

The Nazmul Hossain Shanto-led Bangladesh side finds itself in a must-win situation after losing its opening game to India. Meanwhile, for the Black Caps, a victory would bring them closer to securing a semi-final berth.

Recent form

Bangladesh: The Tigers’ defeat to India in their Champions Trophy opener was their first ODI since December last year. In late 2024, they swept the West Indies 3-0 in T20Is but lost all three ODIs. Their six-wicket loss to India further highlights their struggles in the 50-over format.

New Zealand: The Kiwis have played seven ODIs this year, winning six. Their only loss came against Sri Lanka in January, though they still won that series 2-1. Since then, they have maintained an impressive run, clinching the Tri-Nation Series against Pakistan and South Africa before securing a 60-run victory over hosts Pakistan in the Champions Trophy opener.

Players in focus

Nazmul Hossain Shanto (Bangladesh) – The Tigers’ captain endured a tough outing against India, falling for a second-ball duck. With Bangladesh needing a solid batting foundation, Shanto’s performance will be crucial. Ranked 26th in the ODI rankings, he has had a productive 2024 and will be eager to lead from the front.

Mitchell Santner (New Zealand) – The Black Caps skipper played a key role with the ball in their previous match, returning figures of 3/66 against Pakistan. New Zealand’s batting looked formidable in their opening game, with two centurions and Glenn Phillips smashing 61 off 39 balls. With Kane Williamson and Daryl Mitchell adding depth, their lineup remains strong. Santner’s role, both as a captain and as a bowler, will be pivotal in controlling Bangladesh’s batting.

Squads:

Bangladesh: Nazmul Hossain Shanto (c), Soumya Sarkar, Tanzid Hasan, Tawhid Hridoy, Mushfiqur Rahim, Mahmudullah, Jaker Ali Anik, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Rishad Hossain, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Parvez Hossain Emon, Nasum Ahmed, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Nahid Rana.

New Zealand: Mitchell Santner (c), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Kyle Jamieson, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Will O’Rourke, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Nathan Smith, Kane Williamson, Will Young, Jacob Duffy. 

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