Bangladesh provided a stiff challenge for New Zealand on Day 2 of the first Test match at the Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui. After bowling out New Zealand for 328, they finished the day on on 175/2 in 67 overs. In the process, they became only the second touring side in eight years (after Pakistan in 2016/17) whose first two partnerships took them to 50 overs on New Zealand soil. However, they are still 153 runs behind in the first innings.
Bangladesh’s top three – Shadman Islam, Mahmudul Hasan Joy and Najmul Hossain Shanto – have laid the foundation. Joy is still there, with a 211-ball 70, with Mominul Haque (8*). With Mushfiqur Rahim, Liton Das and Yasir Ali yet to come, Bangladesh should eye 400.
Led by Neil Wagner, the New Zealand attack looked ominous on Day 2, but Bangladesh batters’ defence was as impressive. However, an early wicket on Day 3 may trigger a collapse, as Bangladesh have been subjected to multiple times over the past few months.
Between them, Tim Southee, Trent Boult and Kyle Jamieson have bowled 42 wicketless overs. In fact, both wickets were taken by Wagner, who could have had Shanto earlier had he reviewed a leg-before appeal. The second new ball is still 13 overs due, and they will be looking to get a wicket or two before taking that.
Betway Fantasy Tips
- Expect Bangladesh to bowl out inside the morning session on Day 3.
- If Joy manages to survive the first hour on Day 3, he may get his maiden Test hundred. He is still 30 runs shy to reach there.