DUNEDIN, New Zealand: In the rain-affected first one-day international (ODI) between New Zealand and Bangladesh, opener Will Young played a pivotal role in steering New Zealand to a challenging total of 239/7 off 30 overs in Dunedin. The match experienced multiple delays due to intermittent showers, resulting in a reduced number of overs.
New Zealand encountered an early setback, losing two wickets in the opening over to seamer Shoriful Islam, who capitalized on the overcast conditions. However, the home side mounted a strong recovery, notably through a formidable 171-run partnership for the third wicket between Young and captain Tom Latham. Young showcased exceptional form, scoring 105 off 84 balls, while Latham contributed 92 runs.
The rain-induced interruptions led to adjustments in the overs, with the match eventually reduced to 30 overs per side. Despite the disruptions, the New Zealand pair launched a brutal assault in the final 10.4 overs, accumulating a remarkable 131 runs.
Captain Latham, aiming for his eighth ODI century, was dismissed by offspinner Mehidy Hasan Miraz. Young, the star performer, was run out in the last over, contributing significantly to the team’s final score.
In the bowling department, Shoriful Islam emerged as Bangladesh’s standout performer, claiming 2-28 off six overs. Miraz and Soumya Sarkar faced punishment in the latter part of the innings, conceding runs.
The series features several debutants for New Zealand, including all-rounder Josh Clarkson and seamer William O’Rourke, as the team opted to rest several senior players.
