Match Details
The MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai will host the match between Bangladesh and New Zealand on Friday, 13th October.
Match Preview
New Zealand has been in top form in the World Cup, with two victories under their belt and a net run rate of 1.958. However, they are set to face a unique challenge in Chennai against a formidable spin bowling line-up from Bangladesh on a pitch that is likely to favor spinners.
Despite this, the Kiwis boast a strong spin attack of their own, with Mitchell Santner leading the pack after his five-wicket haul in the previous match. Ish Sodhi and Rachin Ravindra are also valuable assets in their bowling arsenal.
There is a high chance that regular captain Kane Williamson will return to the field for this match, while fast bowler Tim Southee may be rested.
On the other hand, Bangladesh is looking to bounce back after a heavy defeat against England. The team is well-versed with sub-continental conditions and will aim to leverage their spinners to exploit the Chennai pitch. They will also be banking on their top-order batsmen to deliver a strong performance.
Team Line-ups
Bangladesh Squad:
Shakib Al Hasan (c), Litton Kumer Das, Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Najmul Hossain Shanto (vc), Tawhid Hridoy, Mushfiqur Rahim, Mahmudullah Riyad, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Nasum Ahmed, Shak Mahedi Hasan, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Hasan Mahmud, Shoriful Islam, Tanzim Hasan Sakib.
New Zealand Squad:
Kane Williamson (c), Trent Boult, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitch Santner, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee, Will Young.
Players to Watch
Bangladesh – Najmul Hossain Shanto
Najmul Hossain Shanto, despite his recent stumble against England, remains a key player for Bangladesh. He played a significant role in their victory over Afghanistan and is expected to partner with Litton Das to provide a solid start. Shanto, who is just 33 runs short of reaching 1000 runs in ODI cricket, will be crucial in countering New Zealand’s left-arm spinners and steering Bangladesh’s innings during the middle overs.
New Zealand – Matt Henry
Matt Henry has been a standout performer for New Zealand, taking six wickets at an average of 14.66 and maintaining an impressive economy rate of 4.75. His consecutive three-wicket hauls have been instrumental in New Zealand’s victories so far. Given the success of pacers on the slow Chennai pitch, Henry’s role in the upcoming match against Bangladesh could be pivotal.