Mustafizur’s Five-Wicket Haul Seals Series as Bangladesh Beat New Zealand

Bangladesh secured a 2–1 ODI series victory over New Zealand after a dominant 55-run win in the third and final match held in Chattogram on Thursday (April 23).

Returning to the playing XI after missing the first two matches due to injury, left-arm pacer Mustafizur Rahman produced a brilliant bowling performance. Using his trademark cutters, slower balls, and variations, he took five wickets for 43 runs, playing a key role in dismantling the New Zealand batting lineup.
 

Chasing a target of 266, New Zealand were bowled out for 210 in 44.5 overs as Bangladesh’s bowling attack maintained consistent pressure throughout the innings.
 

Earlier in the match, Bangladesh posted a competitive total, largely built on a century from Najmul Hossain Shanto and a supporting innings from Litton Das. Their partnership provided the platform for a strong batting effort.
 

Despite a fighting start from the visitors, Bangladesh’s disciplined bowling ensured regular breakthroughs, preventing any major recovery from the New Zealand side.
 

With this victory, Bangladesh not only won the series but also gained valuable momentum and ranking points ahead of future international fixtures.