Dominant Win for New Zealand, eliminates Bangladesh and Pakistan
New Zealand delivered a clinical performance to defeat Bangladesh comprehensively in their Champions Trophy 2025 encounter, securing a spot in the semi-finals and, in the process, ending the tournament hopes of both Bangladesh and Pakistan. Rachin Ravindra's magnificent century and Michael Bracewell's superb bowling were the cornerstones of a victory that showcased New Zealand's all-round strength.
New Zealand's Performance:
- Batting: The chase of 237 was never really in doubt. Despite losing Will Young early to Taskin Ahmed, and Kane Williamson cheaply, Devon Conway (30 off 45) provided a steady start. The real star was Rachin Ravindra, who played a match-winning innings of 112 off 105 balls, including 12 fours and a six. His controlled aggression and smart shot selection eased any pressure. Tom Latham's supporting knock of 55 off 76 balls, and their 100 run stand, was equally crucial, providing stability and guiding the team home.
- Bowling: Michael Bracewell was the standout performer with the ball, his figures of 4/26 in 10 overs completely dismantling the Bangladesh batting lineup. He consistently broke partnerships and kept the scoring in check. Will O'Rourke (2 wickets), Matt Henry, and Kyle Jamieson provided good support, while Mitchell Santner and Glenn Phillips were economical, ensuring Bangladesh never got away.
- Fielding: Was upto the mark, creating pressure on the batters.
Bangladesh's Performance:
- Batting: Bangladesh's batting was a major disappointment. While captain Najmul Hossain Shanto fought hard with a gritty 77, and Jaker Ali (45) and Rishad Hossain (26) provided some late impetus, the overall total of 236/9 was well below par on a decent batting surface. The consistent loss of wickets throughout the innings prevented them from building any significant momentum. They had hoped for a score around 300, but fell well short.
- Bowling: The Bangladeshi bowlers struggled to create any sustained pressure on the New Zealand batsmen. Taskin Ahmed provided an early breakthrough, and Mustafizur Rahman picked up a wicket, but they lacked the penetration to seriously trouble the Kiwis. The bowlers were unable to defend.
- Fielding: The efforts in fielding were also not enough to pick wickets at regular intervals.
The match highlighted New Zealand's strength in all departments. Their disciplined bowling, spearheaded by Bracewell, restricted Bangladesh to a manageable total, and their batting, led by Ravindra, made the chase look comfortable. For Bangladesh, the tournament ends with a whimper, their batting failing to fire when it mattered most. Pakistan, who were relying on a Bangladesh victory to stay alive, are also eliminated.
