New Zealand registered an 8-wicket victory over Bangladesh thanks to Devon Conway’s unbeaten 70, and Bracewell’s all-round play at the Hagley Oval in Christchurch on Sunday.
Chasing a target of 138, Devon Conway made the things easy for the hosts with his blistering knock of 70 and with the help of later exploits from Glenn Philips (23* off 9), the Blackcaps won the match to be at second spot at the points table.
Earlier, New Zealand bowlers made their presence felt after restricting Bangladesh to just 137 for 8 in 20 overs. Opener Najmul Shanto, who scored 33, was the highest run-scorer for the Tigers.
NZ Vs BAN match highlights
After losing the first game of the series to Pakistan, the Tigers were looking to turn the table, but the hosts walked onto the field with a different plan in mind.
Invited to bat, Bangladesh lost its first player early, as Mehidy Hasan Miraz failed to read Southee and walked back after scoring just 5.
Nazmul Shanto and Litton Das then added 41 for the second wicket before Bracewell caught and ball the later.
On the very next over, Shanto was removed by Ish Sodhi. With Mosaddek Hossain and Yasir Ali also failed to build-up a strong partnership.
The visitors were struggling at 78 for 5 in 13.3 overs, Afif Hossain, Shakib Al Hasan did tried to bring the team back on track but they also failed to play impactful knocks. And gone after scoring 24 and 25, respectively.
Wicket-keeper batter Nurul Hasan opened his arms during the final few overs. He played a knock of 25* off 12 to guide the visitors to 137 for 8 in 20 overs.
New Zealand to chase 138 in 20 overs
In reply, the hosts were playing with a run a ball approach and lost Finn Allen early in the process.
Devon Conway and Kane Williamson, however, steadied the ship with their 85-run stand for the second wicket.
At the time Williamson leaved the crease, the Blackcaps already were so close to the target. They needed only 29 in 30 with well-set Conway on crease.
Bracewell, however, who came at no.4, was in too hurry to finish the game. He smashed two fours and two maximums to help his side cross the line with 13 balls to spare. Conway remained unbeaten at 70* off 51. His knock included seven fours and a maximum.
The 31-year-old Michael Brace, who took 2 wickets with ball and scored a valuable 23* off just 9 won the player of the match award.
The fourth match of the series will feature New Zealand and Pakistan battle it out at the same venue on Tuesday to secure the final berth.
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