The third T20I between Bangladesh and New Zealand is underway at the Shere Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur, Dhaka. New Zealand captain Nick Kelly won the toss and elected to field first, citing the possibility of rain and the advantage of knowing the target while chasing.
Match Context
Bangladesh hold the upper hand in the series after rain washed out the second T20I, ensuring they cannot lose. Having already clinched the ODI leg, the hosts aim for a clean sweep across formats. Confidence is high in the Bangladesh camp, with skipper Litton Das leading a consistent side. For New Zealand, this match is about salvaging pride. Despite being runners-up at the 2026 T20 World Cup, their recent form has been patchy. A series loss to South Africa raised concerns, and another defeat would add to their struggles. Led by Nick Kelly, the visitors are desperate to end the tour on a positive note.
Toss and Team News
Toss: New Zealand won the toss and opted to field. Kelly explained that while they initially planned to bat, the rain made chasing a better option. Bangladesh captain Litton Das also wanted to bowl first, noting the overhead conditions favor a chase. Das confirmed one change: Mohammad Saifuddin replaces Tanzim Hasan Sakib, who has a back niggle. New Zealand made two changes to their lineup.
Playing XIs
Bangladesh (Playing XI): Saif Hassan, Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Litton Das (w/c), Towhid Hridoy, Parvez Hossain Emon, Shamim Hossain, Mahedi Hasan, Mohammad Saifuddin, Rishad Hossain, Ripon Mondol, Shoriful Islam.
New Zealand (Playing XI): Katene Clarke, Tim Robinson, Dane Cleaver (w), Nick Kelly (c), Bevon Jacobs, Dean Foxcroft, Josh Clarkson, Nathan Smith, Ish Sodhi, Jayden Lennox, Ben Sears.
Pitch Report
The match is being played on the same surface used for the first ODI, which had inconsistent bounce—a nightmare for batters. Ground dimensions: 79 meters straight, 69 and 58 meters square boundaries. The outfield is damp due to recent rain, which might slow down aerial shots despite the ball traveling quickly along the grass. Experts suggest that 150 is an inadequate total on this wicket, advising teams to target at least 170 to feel secure.
Captain's Comments
Litton Das: "We also wanted to bowl first, looking at the conditions. In the last couple of series, we didn't do well in the middle overs, but the batters have performed well lately. We have one change because Sakib has a slight niggle."
Nick Kelly: "We will bowl first. We thought of batting first, but with a bit of rain around it's better to know what we are chasing. We were on top about 60% of the game, but we couldn't finish. We would like to improve on that. We have made two changes."
Key Players to Watch
- Bangladesh: Litton Das (captain/wicketkeeper), Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Towhid Hridoy, Mahedi Hasan, Shoriful Islam.
- New Zealand: Nick Kelly (captain), Dane Cleaver (wicketkeeper), Bevon Jacobs, Ish Sodhi, Ben Sears.
Match Prediction
With rain a constant threat, both teams hope for a full game. Bangladesh's batting unit, featuring Tanzid Hasan Tamim and Towhid Hridoy, will aim to set a challenging total. Their bowlers have been disciplined under pressure. New Zealand will rely on their bowling attack, including Ish Sodhi and Ben Sears, to restrict the hosts. With pride, momentum, and a potential series sweep on the line, this promises to be a gripping contest—weather permitting.
