DHAKA, April 17, 2026 (BSS)- Bangladesh bowlers produced a disciplined 
performance to hold New Zealand back to 247-8 in the three-match ODI series 
opening game today at Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium.

Opener Henry Nicholls struck a well-composed 68 and Dean Foxfort hit a brisk 
59 to steer the visitors close to 250 after they made a shaky start following 
their captain Tom Latham's decision to bat first.

Shoriful Islam, who replaced Mustafizur just moments before the toss after 
the latter's injury, struck initially by removing Nick Kelly for 7. 
Shoriful might have taken Will Young in his next over had Saif Hassan not 
shelled a regulation catch at slip.

Young, survived on 1, went on to score 30 but most importantly added 73-run 
with Nicholls to steady the innings. 

Leg-spinner Rishad Hossain broke through with the wicket of Young before 
dismissing Nicholls to stall the progress, leaving New Zealand at 127-4.
Nicholls sent the ball across the ropes nine times in his 83 ball-knock.

Mehidy Hasan Miraz got the better of his opposite number Latham for 14 while 
Shoriful who ended with 2-27 in 10 overs, sent back Muhammad Abbar for the 
same score to further derail New Zealand innings.

Foxfort, who got a lifeline on 28, guided the lower order astutely amid 
Bangladesh bowlers' good work. 

Foxfort's 58-ball-innings, including eight fours, came to an end when Nahid 
Rana rattled his stump with searing pace for his only wicket in the match. 

At the death, Taskin Ahmed bowled with control and precision, claiming 2-50 
to prevent New Zealand from accelerating further.

Nathan Smith remained unbeaten on 21 as Bangladesh's bowlers combined 
effectively to keep the visitors within reach.