Bangladesh vs New Zealand: Left-arm spinner Taijul Islam’s impressive 4-40 performance has brought Bangladesh within striking distance of a memorable victory in the first Test in Sylhet.
SEE PM XI Test Prep: Pakistan Cricket Team Lands in Canberra
Needing 332 runs to win, New Zealand struggled at 113-7 by the end of the fourth day, still requiring 219 runs for an unlikely triumph. Daryl Mitchell’s unbeaten 44 emerged as their only hope to create a miracle and extend the match into the fifth day.
However, the Bangladesh bowlers, led by Taijul, maintained firm control, supported by Shoriful Islam, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, and Nayeem Hasan, each contributing a wicket.
Bangladesh is eyeing a swift wrap-up of the New Zealand innings on the final day, aiming for their second Test victory against New Zealand and their first on home turf.
“It’s exciting to challenge a top team” mentioned Taijul, emphasizing their efforts for an eventual win.
New Zealand’s Ajaz Patel acknowledged the uphill task ahead but affirmed their determination to continue the fight. He praised Mitchell’s resilient batting and signaled their intention to push back in the game.
Bangladesh had earlier built a solid second innings total of 338, courtesy of Mushfiqur Rahim’s 67 and Mehidy’s crucial contributions after skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto’s century.
The Kiwi bowlers, particularly Patel and Sodhi, made notable contributions, but Bangladesh’s determined batting effort set the stage for a potential historic victory.