New Zealand has continued its winning streak in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 with a resounding eight-wicket victory over Bangladesh, securing their third consecutive win in the tournament. However, the triumph came at a cost, as New Zealand’s captain, Kane Williamson, was forced to retire hurt due to an apparent thumb injury during the match.
Facing a target of 245 set by Bangladesh in Chennai, the Kiwis achieved the victory with ease. Still, the moment of concern arose when Williamson, who was leading the charge with a remarkable knock, was compelled to leave the field due to his injury. Throughout his innings, Williamson appeared to be nursing an injury and seemed uncomfortable while running between the wickets. His unfortunate injury occurred when an infield throw struck his left hand while he was completing a run.
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On the other side, Bangladesh is anxiously awaiting updates on the condition of their captain, Shakib Al Hasan, who sustained a left quad injury during the match. Shakib has undergone scans to assess the extent of his injury, and his availability for their upcoming clash with India on October 19 remains uncertain.
Match Summary – New Zealand vs. Bangladesh:
In a match that saw Bangladesh post a total of 245/9 in their allotted 50 overs, New Zealand’s bowlers showcased their skills, particularly in the middle overs, to restrict the opposition.
New Zealand’s batting response began with the early loss of Rachin Ravindra. However, they quickly took control of the chase, with a solid 80-run partnership between Devon Conway and the returning skipper, Kane Williamson, who replaced Will Young.
Conway’s dismissal for 45, bowled lbw by Shakib, did little to deter New Zealand’s progress. Daryl Mitchell joined Williamson in the middle, and the No.4 displayed composure throughout his innings. He scored an unbeaten 89* from just 67 balls, featuring six fours and four sixes. Glenn Phillips contributed 16* (11) to secure a convincing win, although his appearance in the innings came after Williamson retired hurt due to his injury.
Despite his injury scare, Williamson tried to continue batting but eventually decided to leave the field after consulting with the team doctor. The severity of his injury remains unclear, and his tentative running between the wickets raises concerns.
New Zealand’s bowling unit, led by Lockie Ferguson (3/49) and Mitchell Santner (1/31), played a pivotal role in restricting Bangladesh. The Tigers lost momentum in the middle of their innings, going from 152/4 to 180/7. Lockie Ferguson’s performance earned him the Player of the Match award. Trent Boult celebrated his 200th wicket in ODI cricket by dismissing Towhid Hridoy.
Despite Mahmudullah Riyad’s efforts to stabilize the innings towards the end, he received limited support from the tailenders, with the final 10 overs yielding 56 runs.
Bangladesh’s innings began on a disappointing note, with Litton Das falling for a golden duck off the first ball. Despite a spirited effort from all-rounder Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Bangladesh faced consistent pressure from New Zealand’s bowlers.
Shakib Al Hasan and Mushfiqur Rahim sought to rebuild the innings with a determined partnership. Mushfiqur’s aggressive batting led the way, and Bangladesh reached 100 runs in the 21st over. However, Shakib’s aggressive approach eventually led to his dismissal, as he was caught by the wicketkeeper Tom Latham.
Mushfiqur Rahim’s brave innings of 66, featuring six fours and two sixes, came to an end when he was outfoxed by a slower delivery from Matt Henry.
Brief Score
- Bangladesh 245/9 (Mushfiqur Rahim 66, Shakib Al Hasan 40; Lockie Ferguson 3-49)
- New Zealand 248-2 (Daryl Mitchell 89*, Kane Williamson 78; Mustafizur Rahman 1-36). (ANI)
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