NZ vs BAN: 1st T20I, Match Prediction – Who will win today’s match?

Bangladesh had their moments in the second ODI against New Zealand, but Tom Latham’s ton denied them a victory. Moreover, hefty losses in the first and third matches meant that the Tigers lost the series 0-3. To add insult to injury, Tamim Iqbal, their skipper, earlier opted out of the T20I series, citing personal reasons.

The first of the three T20Is is set to be played at the Seddon Park in Hamilton. Bangladesh have lost all their four T20Is in New Zealand. In Hamilton, they have faced the Black Caps only once in 2010 and lost by 10 wickets after getting bowled out for 78.

Having already beaten Australia 3-2, the Kiwis must be high on confidence. Though they have a relatively young side, Tim Southee and Co are expected to start as the favourites ahead of the contest on Sunday, March 28.

Pitch and conditions

The pitch in Hamilton has been an absolute batting paradise over the years. In 11 completed T20Is, the average score is nearly 180 and a high-scoring affair seems to be on the cards. Batting second should be the way forward as the track isn’t expected to change much. The conditions will be cloudy, but with no chances of rain. The temperature will be around the 20 degrees Celsius-mark.

Playing Combinations for NZ vs BAN

New Zealand

Predicted XI: Martin Guptill, Finn Allen/Hamish Bennett, Glenn Phillips (wk), Will Young, Devon Conway, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Tim Southee (C), Lockie Ferguson, Adam Milne, Ish Sodhi

Bench: Finn Allen/Hamish Bennett, Todd Astle

Bangladesh

Predicted XI: Mohammad Naim, Liton Das, Soumya Sarkar/Mohammad Mithun, Mushfiqur Rahim (wk), Mahmudullah (C), Afif Hossain, Mahedi Hasan, Mohammad Saifuddin, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman

Bench: Al-Amin Hossain, Hasan Mahmud, Soumya Sarkar/Mohammad Mithun, Mosaddek Hossain, Nasum Ahmed, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Shoriful Islam

Probable Top Performers of NZ vs BAN

Glenn Phillips (New Zealand)

Devon Conway has been in excellent form in recent times, especially after his 126 in the final ODI where he scored at more than a run-a-ball. Even in the T20 format, he has been in prime form. In 11 T20Is, the southpaw has 366 runs with a top score of an unbeaten 99 against the Aussies in Christchurch.

Liton Das (Bangladesh)

Liton Das might have failed in the ODI series but that he has potential can’t be denied by any means. In 29 T20Is, he averages a mere 22.71, but he was the leading run-scorer in the Bangabandhu T20 Cup last year. With all the experience he has, the right-hander would be looking to make amends.

NZ vs BAN Broadcast Details

Match Timings – 06:30 AM IST

Live Streaming – Fan code

Today’s match prediction: New Zealand to win the match.

Disclaimer: This prediction is based on the understanding, analysis, and instinct of the author. While making your prediction, consider the points mentioned, and make your own decision.