New Zealand T20I Tri-Series Review: Devon Conway, bowlers shine as New Zealand outsmart Bangladesh

New Zealand managed to get their first points on board in the Tri Series as they eased past the Bangladesh side at the Hagley Oval in Christchurch. A combined effort from the bowlers alongside Devon Conway’s unbeaten 70 setup the Kiwis for a dominating win.  

Earlier in the game, New Zealand opted to bowl first after winning the toss. Mehidy Hasan Miraz was dismissed early for just five runs before Najmul Hossain Shanto (33) and Litton Das broke the shackles and played few pleasing shots upfront to build a steady partnership. However, a bundle of wickets fell once the duo were removed and Bangladesh were pushed to 78/5 in the 14th over.  

Afif Hossain and skipper Shakib Al Hasan took their time to rescue the innings, however, their efforts were short lived. Nurul Hasan was the only batter who got going and his 12-ball 25, comprising of two sixes, helped Bangladesh reach 137/8 in their 20 overs. Trent Boult, Tim Southee, Michael Bracewell and Ish Sodhi picked up two wickets each in the New Zealand bowling department.  

Devon Conway steers the run-chase with an unbeaten 70

In reply, the Kiwis were put on the backfoot with the dismissal of Finn Allen but Devon Conway looked quite positive from the outset. Conwayand skipper Kane Williamson struck a formidable partnership of 85 runs for the second wicket to put the home side in the driver’s seat.  

The bulk of the runs came from Conway's bat while Williamson was happy to rotate the strike. After a fighting knock of 30 off 29, Williamson’s innings came to an end, while Conway managed to go past a fantastic half century.

Glenn Phillips' 9-ball 23 with two fours and two sixes helped New Zealand complete a successful run chase with 8 wickets in hand and 13 balls left. For Bangladesh, Hasan Mahmud was the pick of the bowlers with 1 for 26 in his four overs.