New Zealand put up 182 for 6 against Bangladesh in the first Twenty20 international on Monday, setting a target of 183 for the hosts.
After Bangladesh chose to field at Bir Sreshtho Flight Lieutenant Matiur Rahman Stadium, New Zealand made a strong start before being pulled back by disciplined bowling.
Dane Cleaver led the charge with a brisk 51 off 28 balls, while Katene Clarke added 51 from 37 deliveries. The pair shared an 88-run stand to stabilise the innings after an early run-out.
Bangladesh struck back through Rishad Hossain, who took two wickets and broke the partnership. Both set batters were dismissed soon after reaching their half-centuries.
Captain Nick Kelly contributed 39, but regular wickets in the middle overs prevented New Zealand from pushing past the 200 mark. Josh Clarkson’s unbeaten 27 off 14 balls helped the visitors finish strongly.
Among the bowlers, Rishad was the most effective with 2-32, while Shoriful Islam, Mahedi Hasan and Tanzim Hasan Sakib picked up one wicket each.
Bangladesh now needs 183 runs to win the opening match of the series.
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