Bangladesh will look to seal the three-match T20I series after taking a 1-0 lead, having won the opening game by six wickets against New Zealand, as the teams prepare for a rain-hit second encounter in Chattogram.
Captain Litton Das, who also keeps wickets, will again lead a balanced Bangladesh side combining youth and experience. Tanzid Hasan and Saif Hassan are expected to open the innings, with Parvez Hossain Emon at No. 3. The middle order, featuring Towhid Hridoy and Shamim Hossain, will be tasked with controlling the tempo, while Mahedi Hasan provides crucial all-round support.
Bangladesh's bowling attack offers variety, with Shoriful Islam and Tanzim Hasan leading the pace unit alongside Ripon Mondol.
Leg-spinner Rishad Hossain is likely to be key in the middle overs, particularly if conditions assist spin.
New Zealand, meanwhile, remain uncertain over the fitness of regular captain Tom Latham, who missed the first match due to injury. In his absence, Nick Kelly is set to continue as stand-in skipper. The visitors are fielding a relatively inexperienced squad and will be under pressure to respond after their defeat in the series opener.
Tim Robinson and Katene Clarke are expected to open for New Zealand, followed by wicketkeeper Dane Cleaver. The middle order includes Kelly, Bevon Jacobs and Dean Foxcroft, with Josh Clarkson adding depth as an all-rounder. Their bowling attack will be led by leg-spinner Ish Sodhi, supported by seamers Nathan Smith, Matt Fisher and Ben Lister.
New Zealand could also consider bringing in left-arm spinner Jayden Lennox if they decide to tweak their combination based on conditions.
The pitch at the Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium has traditionally favoured batters, offering good bounce and carry. However, heavy rain on the eve of the match has raised concerns, and more showers are forecast on match day, potentially affecting play.
With the weather likely to play a role, the toss could be crucial, especially if the match is shortened.
Bangladesh will be eager to capitalise on home conditions and wrap up the series, while New Zealand will aim to bounce back and force a decider.
If conditions allow a full contest, the second T20I promises another competitive clash, with Bangladesh holding the early advantage and New Zealand fighting to stay alive in the series.
