With a stunning win in the BAN v NZ first Test, Bangladesh moves to the second spot in the 2023-25 World Test Championship (WTC) Standings. Pakistan still maintains the top spot with 24 points while Bangladesh has accumulated 12. India remains in third with 66.7 PCT. While Sri Lanka, South Africa and New Zealand go to the bottom jointly.
Taijul Islam’s ten-wicket haul helped Bangladesh overcome New Zealand by 150 runs in Sylhet. The Tigers now lead the two-game series 1-0 and have secured critical World Test Championship (WTC) points.
Najmul Hossain Shanto led Bangladesh to their first Test victory at home against New Zealand in his debut Test as captain. This was their second Test victory in 18 games. Their previous victory over the Kiwis came in 2022.
After winning the toss, Najmul Hossain Shanto chose to bat first. Bangladesh’s top order sought to make the most of good batting conditions, despite the fact that the ground was turning. New Zealand responded, led by Glenn Phillips (4/53). Bangladesh’s score dropped from 180/2 to 310.
Kane Williamson’s 104, along with 41 from Daryl Mitchell and 42 from Glenn Phillips, helped the visitors build a seven-run advantage. Taijul Islam (4/109) and Mominul Haque (3/4), both from Bangladesh, were noteworthy performers.
A battling century from skipper Najmul and a fine fifty from Mushfiqur Rahim (67) enabled Bangladesh set a target of 332 in the second innings. Despite late fight from the rearguard, the visitors fell under the attack of Bangladesh spin and folded for 181. Taijul once again shone out with 6/75.
This was Bangladesh’s second Test at this venue. Zimbabwe had defeated Bangladesh by 151 runs in the previous encounter. In the game, Islam finished with a career-high 11/170. The second BAN vs NZ second test will commence from 6th December.
