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The ICC Champions Trophy always brings high stakes, and Bangladesh find themselves in a must-win situation after their opening loss to India. With only three group-stage matches, another defeat here could end their hopes of progressing to the next round. Their opponents, New Zealand, have been dominant since arriving in Pakistan, making this a tough challenge for Bangladesh.
New Zealand have been in excellent form, winning all four matches on this tour so far. They comfortably defeated defending champions Pakistan in their last outing, and a win here would almost guarantee their place in the semi-finals. Bangladesh, on the other hand, need a big performance to keep their tournament hopes alive.
This clash in Rawalpindi promises to be an exciting contest with plenty on the line.
Match Details
| Match | Bangladesh vs New Zealand |
|---|---|
| Date | Monday, 3rd February 2025 |
| Time | 2:00 PM Local Time |
| Venue | Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium |
| Format | ODI |
Teams Preview
Bangladesh Preview
Bangladesh showed great resilience in their first game against India after a disastrous start. At 35/5 inside nine overs, they were staring at an embarrassing total. However, Towhid Hridoy’s brilliant century and Jaker Ali’s patient knock helped them post a respectable score of 228. While it wasn’t enough for victory, it showed they can fight back under pressure.
For this match, Bangladesh need a much stronger start from their top order. Tanzid Hasan, Soumya Sarkar, and Najmul Hossain Shanto must find a way to counter New Zealand’s strong bowling attack. Mehidy Hasan Miraz, who has delivered on big occasions before, will also be key. If these players can set a solid foundation, Hridoy and Mushfiqur Rahim can capitalize later in the innings.
Their bowling attack has some quality, with Taskin Ahmed and Mustafizur Rahman leading the pace department. They will look to use the early movement available in Rawalpindi. Spinners Rishad Hossain and Mehidy Hasan Miraz bowled well against India and will again play a crucial role in the middle overs.
Bangladesh Predicted Playing XI:
Tanzid Hasan, Soumya Sarkar, Najmul Hossain Shanto (c), Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Towhid Hridoy, Mushfiqur Rahim (wk), Jaker Ali, Rishad Hossain, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman
New Zealand Preview
New Zealand’s form has been outstanding, and their victory over Pakistan only reinforced their status as serious contenders for the title. Every batter in their lineup has made significant contributions on this tour, making them a tough team to stop.
The top order, featuring Will Young and Devon Conway, has been solid, with both players capable of long innings. Kane Williamson’s experience in these conditions will be vital, and Daryl Mitchell provides stability in the middle. Tom Latham, fresh off a century against Pakistan, adds further depth. Glenn Phillips and Michael Bracewell bring firepower in the lower order.
Their bowling attack is equally formidable. Matt Henry and Will O’Rourke have been among the top performers, consistently taking wickets. Mitchell Santner and Michael Bracewell provide spin options, ensuring New Zealand have a well-rounded attack to challenge Bangladesh’s batting lineup.
New Zealand Predicted Playing XI:
Will Young, Devon Conway, Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham (wk), Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner (c), Nathan Smith, Matt Henry, Will O’Rourke
Fantasy Team XI
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Wicketkeeper | Tom Latham |
| Batters | Kane Williamson, Will Young, Towhid Hridoy, Tanzid Hasan |
| All-rounders | Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Daryl Mitchell, Mitchell Santner |
| Bowlers | Matt Henry, Mustafizur Rahman, Will O’Rourke |
Pitch Report
Rawalpindi has always been a high-scoring venue, and conditions are expected to favor batters once again.
- Batting Conditions: The pitch offers good pace, bounce, and carry, making stroke play easier. Teams will look to score at least 330 when batting first.
- Pace Bowling: Fast bowlers will get assistance early, with the new ball expected to swing.
- Spin Bowling: The pitch doesn’t offer much for spinners, but accuracy will be key in controlling the scoring rate.
Toss Prediction: Bowl First
Rawalpindi has seen teams chasing win four of the last five ODIs played here. Captains will prefer to bowl first and take advantage of any early movement before the surface flattens out.
Winning Prediction
Bangladesh have talent, but their struggles in ICC tournaments continue. Their batting depth remains a concern, and against a well-rounded New Zealand side, they will need something special to pull off a win.
New Zealand, with their strong top order and effective bowling attack, are the clear favorites. Expect them to extend their winning run in Pakistan.
Prediction: New Zealand to win!
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