Nahid Rana. Photo: Collected

Dhaka, April 20, 2026 (BSS) - New Zealand opener Nick Kelly has credited 
Bangladesh pacer Nahid Rana as the decisive factor in his side's six-wicket 
defeat in the second ODI, praising the young fast bowler's pace, consistency 
and ability to break partnerships at crucial moments.

Nahid delivered a match-winning spell, claiming a five-wicket haul as 
Bangladesh bowled New Zealand out for 198 in 48.3 overs before chasing down 
the target comfortably to level the three-match series.

"He's a really exciting young talent. He bowls with good pace, and the wicket 
suited him. There was a bit more grass, and he got some swing at mid-to-high 
140s," Kelly said.

The opener, who top-scored for New Zealand with 83, said Nahid's improved 
execution compared to the first ODI was a major difference in the match.

"He attacked the stumps more, got swing, and used the extra bounce well. An 
example is Will Young's wicket - good pace and bounce. Maintaining 145-plus 
speeds in that heat was very impressive," he said.

Kelly also highlighted Nahid's immediate impact at the start of spells, 
describing him as a bowler who gives batters no time to settle.

"He comes in and is on the money from ball one. There are no warm-up 
deliveries. As a batting unit, you need to be ready straight away," he said.

He further noted Nahid's effectiveness in breaking developing partnerships 
during the middle overs.
 
"He was used in short bursts to bowl fast and make things happen. Every time 
we built something, he came in and broke it," Kelly added.

Reflecting on New Zealand's total, Kelly admitted the score of 198 was below 
par in the conditions.

"You always believe the total is defendable, but in reflection we probably 
needed 240-250. Bangladesh's batters came out with intent and put us under 
pressure early," he said.

New Zealand had won the opening ODI by 26 runs but were outplayed in the 
second match. Kelly, however, remained optimistic ahead of the series 
decider.

"It's one-all now. We'll take the learning, rest, and be ready for the next 
game," he said.