New Zealand eased past Bangladesh as Ravindra’s brilliant 112 and Bracewell’s 4-26 secured victory
New Zealand secured their semi-final spot in the ICC Champions Trophy with a dominant five-wicket win over Bangladesh in Rawalpindi, powered by Rachin Ravindra’s stunning century and Michael Bracewell’s brilliant spell.
Chasing a modest target of 237, the Black Caps faced early trouble when Will Young was bowled by Taskin Ahmed in the very first over. Things worsened as Kane Williamson edged behind for just five, leaving New Zealand wobbling at 15-2. But Ravindra, returning to the side after missing the opener due to concussion, played an exceptional knock to steady the innings. Partnering with Devon Conway (30), he weathered the initial storm before building a match-winning 129-run stand with Tom Latham (55).
By the time Ravindra departed for 112 off 105 balls, New Zealand needed just 36 runs. Latham ensured there were no late hiccups, guiding his team home with 3.5 overs to spare. The victory not only sealed New Zealand’s place in the semi-finals but also eliminated both Bangladesh and hosts Pakistan, securing India’s progression from Group A.
Bangladesh’s downfall was largely self-inflicted. Despite captain Najmul Hossain Shanto’s resilient 77 and Jaker Ali’s 45, their batting collapsed under pressure. They started well, reaching 58-1 in the opening 10 overs, but their innings unravelled in dramatic fashion. A promising 97-2 quickly became 118-5 as Bracewell ran riot, claiming 4-26—his best-ever ODI figures. Eight of Bangladesh’s nine dismissals came from reckless shots in the outfield, highlighting their lack of discipline.
New Zealand’s bowling attack, disciplined and relentless, never allowed Bangladesh to settle. Bracewell’s off-spin proved lethal, dismantling the middle order with ease. His victims—Tanzid Hasan, Tawhid Hridoy, Mushfiqur Rahim, and Mahmudullah—fell to poor shot selection as the batters struggled to rotate strike.
Bangladesh’s bowlers started well, with Taskin Ahmed’s early breakthroughs briefly igniting hope. However, their attack lacked the firepower to contain New Zealand once Ravindra and Latham took control. Missed chances only compounded their misery—Ravindra survived a crucial run-out scare on 25 and was dropped twice on 93 and 105.
With their semi-final place secured, New Zealand now face India in a top-of-the-table clash. Both teams remain unbeaten, but this showdown will test their resilience under real pressure. Bangladesh, meanwhile, bowed out of the tournament knowing they had squandered a golden opportunity with poor decision-making and unforced errors.
The commanding performance of New Zealand secures their semi-final spot, proving they are a force to be reckoned with. With Ravindra and Bracewell in top form, they look ready to challenge for the title.
