Bangladesh A thrash New Zealand A by 7 wickets

Bangladesh A kicked off their three-match ODI series in dominant fashion, cruising to a seven-wicket win over New Zealand A in the opening match at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium on Sunday.

Chasing a modest target of 148, the hosts reached 149 for 3 in just 27.2 overs, securing a 1–0 lead in the series with 136 balls to spare.

The win was set up by a clinical bowling display after New Zealand A won the toss and opted to bat. The visitors were bundled out for 147 in 34.3 overs, with Khaled Ahmed leading the charge. The pacer returned figures of 3 for 27 to claim the Player of the Match award. He was well supported by Tanvir Islam, who also took three wickets, while Shoriful Islam and Ebadot Hossain claimed two apiece.

New Zealand A’s innings crumbled early, losing four wickets for just 13 runs. Five batters, including captain Nick Kelly, were dismissed without scoring. Only Dean Foxcroft (72 off 64 balls) and opener Rhys Mariu (42) managed to reach double digits, underlining the visitors' batting woes.

Bangladesh A's reply was smooth and assertive. Parvez Hossain Emon gave a brisk start with 24, while Anamul Haque added 38. Mahidul Islam Ankon (42 not out) and captain Nurul Hasan (20 not out) guided the team to a comfortable finish.

The second match of the series is scheduled to be played at the same venue later this week.