Cricket enthusiasts in Bangladesh are in for a treat as the Blackcaps, New Zealand’s national cricket team, prepares to make a long-awaited return to the country for a momentous tour featuring a combination of One Day Internationals (ODIs) and Test matches. This exciting venture marks the first tour of its kind since 2013, promising an array of thrilling encounters between the two sides.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) unveiled the meticulously crafted itinerary for New Zealand’s highly anticipated tour, which includes three ODIs and a two-match Test series. The significance of this tour is heightened by its role in shaping the teams’ preparations for the impending ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023.

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Kicking off the tour on September 21, New Zealand will engage in a series of three ODIs, all set to take place at the iconic Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur. These white-ball battles will serve as vital stepping stones for both teams as they fine-tune their strategies in the lead-up to the World Cup, scheduled to commence on October 5.

The tour’s second leg holds even more excitement, as it features a Test series that aligns with the ongoing ICC World Test Championship cycle. The two red-ball clashes are scheduled for November and December, post the World Cup fervor, giving fans a rare chance to witness traditional cricketing battles.

The announcement comes as a moment of joy for cricket enthusiasts who have eagerly awaited New Zealand’s return to Bangladesh’s cricketing landscape. The last such encounter between these teams took place back in 2013, making this reunion all the more special.

While the venue for the Test series is yet to be disclosed, the cricketing fraternity can rest assured that the matches will be played on a fitting stage that befits the essence of Test cricket.

The tour serves as a prelude to New Zealand’s ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup campaign, commencing on October 5 with a high-octane clash against England. The 2019 World Cup finalists have their sights set on the ultimate glory, and their journey begins with a challenging duel against the reigning champions.

Bangladesh, on the other hand, enters the World Cup fray against Afghanistan on October 7, setting the stage for a captivating showdown at the picturesque Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamsala.

The itinerary for New Zealand’s tour of Bangladesh is as follows: