Nahid Rana shines as Bangladesh level series with dominant win over New Zealand in 2nd ODI

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Bangladesh bounced back in style to defeat New Zealand by 6 wickets in the second ODI at Shere Bangla National Stadium, leveling the series 1-1. A sensational five-wicket haul from Nahid Rana followed by a fluent chase led by Tanzid Hasan Tamim ensured the hosts sealed a comfortable victory with plenty of overs to spare.

After winning the toss, New Zealand opted to bat but struggled to build momentum against a disciplined Bangladesh bowling attack. The visitors were bundled out for 198 in 48.4 overs, despite a fighting knock from Nick Kelly, who anchored the innings with a well-crafted 83 off 102 balls.

However, the standout performer was Rana, who ripped through the middle and lower order with figures of 5 for 32 in his 10 overs. His ability to extract pace and movement proved too much for the New Zealand batters. Shoriful Islam also chipped in with two wickets, while Taskin Ahmed and Rishad Hossain provided crucial breakthroughs to keep the pressure intact. None of the other Kiwi batters could convert their starts, which ultimately kept their total below the 200-run mark.

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Chasing 199, Bangladesh got off to a brisk start thanks to Tanzid, who played an aggressive yet controlled innings of 76 off just 58 deliveries. His knock, laced with 10 fours and 4 sixes, put the hosts firmly in command early in the chase. After a couple of quick wickets, Najmul Hossain Shanto anchored the innings with a composed half-century, scoring 50 off 71 balls. Towhid Hridoy provided solid support with a handy 30, ensuring there were no hiccups in the chase. Bangladesh eventually reached the target in just 35.3 overs, showcasing their batting depth and intent.

For New Zealand, Jayden Lennox picked up two wickets, while Nathan Smith and William O’Rourke managed one each, but their efforts were not enough to defend the modest total.

With this win, Bangladesh have drawn level in the three-match ODI series after New Zealand had won the opening game by 26 runs. The momentum now shifts towards a high-stakes decider, which will be played on April 23 at the Bir Sreshtho Flight Lieutenant Matiur Rahman Stadium.

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