In a dramatic turn during the Bangladesh-New Zealand ODI series, the hosts faced financial repercussions despite a dominant win in the second match. Played at Dhaka’s Sher-e-Bangla Stadium, Bangladesh’s bowlers operated at a sluggish pace, resulting in a 10 percent match fee fine announced by ICC Elite Panel referee Andy Pycroft.
The infraction stemmed from delivering only two fewer overs than mandated in the allotted time, contravening ICC Code of Conduct Article 2.22. Each over deficit incurs a five percent penalty, doubling up for Bangladesh’s lapse. Mehidy Hasan Miraz’s acceptance of guilt streamlined the process, bypassing any hearing. Umpires Richard Illingworth, Gazi Sohail, Nitin Menon, and Masudur Rahman Mukul unanimously backed the charge.
On the field, however, it was all glory for Bangladesh. New Zealand’s innings folded for 198 in 48.4 overs after being put in to bat. Nick Kelly’s 83 off 102 provided resistance, but Nahid Rana’s lethal 5 for 32 dismantled the Kiwi batting lineup.
Bangladesh’s pursuit of 199 was methodical. After early setbacks with Saif Hasan and Soumya Sarkar departing inexpensively, Tanzid Hasan and Najmul Hossain Shanto forged a match-winning 120-run stand. Tanzid smashed 76 off 58 deliveries, Shanto contributed 50 before retiring hurt, and Towhid Hridoy (30*) guided the team home with overs to spare, securing a six-wicket triumph.
Rana’s heroics earned him Player of the Match honors. With the series poised at 1-1, anticipation builds for the finale in Chattogram on Thursday, where both teams will battle for supremacy.
