Rachin Ravindra Guides New Zealand to Victory, Securing Semifinal Spot in Champions Trophy
Rachin Ravindra played a pivotal role with a century, steering New Zealand to a crucial five-wicket win over Bangladesh on Monday, securing their place in the semifinals of the Champions Trophy. This victory also confirmed India’s spot in the semifinals, eliminating tournament hosts Pakistan and Bangladesh from the competition. Both India and New Zealand have won their first two matches, including victories over Pakistan. Earlier in the match, all-rounder Michael Bracewell starred with a four-wicket haul, restricting Bangladesh to 236 for nine.
New Zealand’s chase got off to a shaky start as they lost Will Young and Kane Williamson early, leaving them at 15 for two. However, Ravindra’s brilliant 112 off 105 balls, featuring 12 fours and a six, turned the tide for the Black Caps. Skipper Tom Latham also contributed with a steady 55 off 76 balls, sharing a match-winning 129-run partnership with Ravindra for the fourth wicket. New Zealand completed the chase in 46.1 overs, despite some impressive bowling from Bangladesh.
Bangladesh had their moments early in the match. Taskin Ahmed struck first, dismissing Young with a stunning inswinger that crashed into the stumps before New Zealand could open their account. Express pacer Nahid Rana then removed Williamson for 5, thanks to a sharp catch by Mushfiqur Rahim. Devon Conway (30) and Ravindra stabilised the innings with a 57-run stand before Mustafizur Rahman bowled Conway, leaving New Zealand at 72 for three in the 16th over.
Earlier, Bracewell’s off-spin proved highly effective as he finished with figures of 4/26 in 10 overs, troubling Bangladesh’s batting lineup. Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto top-scored for Bangladesh with a patient 77 off 110 balls, but the team’s batters struggled with their approach, playing 86 dot balls in the first 21 overs. Jaker Ali provided some late resistance with a quick 45 off 55 balls, but Bangladesh failed to post a competitive total.
New Zealand’s disciplined bowling and Ravindra’s composed century ensured they emerged victorious, setting up an exciting semifinal clash in the Champions Trophy.
Topics mentioned in this article: Champions Trophy, New Zealand vs Bangladesh, Rachin Ravindra, Michael Bracewell, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Tom Latham
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