In a dramatic turn of events, New Zealand secured a 17-run victory against Bangladesh using the Duckworth-Lewis method, leveling the T20 series 1-1. Mitchell Santner and James Neesham’s pivotal 46-run partnership played a decisive role in quashing Bangladesh’s aspirations of winning their maiden series in New Zealand.
Facing a target of 110 runs, the entire Bangladesh team was dismissed for 110 in 19.2 overs. Captain Najmul Shanto top-scored with 17 runs, and only five batsmen managed to reach double figures.
New Zealand’s top order faced early setbacks, with the team reeling at a dismal 49 for five wickets in the ninth over. However, a resilient partnership between Neesham (28 not out) and Santner (18 not out) resurrected the innings, guiding New Zealand to 95 for five by the 15th over. Rain intervened, leading to the conclusion of the match. Utilizing the Duckworth-Lewis method, New Zealand’s required target was adjusted to 79 runs in 14.4 overs, a target the team had already surpassed.
The T20 series between the two teams stands level at 1-1, with Bangladesh winning the first match by five wickets and the second match being abandoned due to rain. Although Bangladesh drew the T20 series and lost the three-match ODI series, they achieved a historic feat by securing their first wins in both formats in New Zealand.
While Duckworth-Lewis is a necessary tool for rain-affected matches, critics argue it can lead to unjust outcomes in T20s.
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