Chasing a target of 246, Bangladesh ‘A’ seemed well within reach for a large portion of the final day. However, their approach told a different story. Rather than pushing for victory, the batters appeared content with a Test-style survival strategy — a tactic that backfired spectacularly.
In the end, it was a magical over from New Zealand ‘A’ spinner Adithya Ashok that turned the tide. Bangladesh collapsed, losing three wickets in a single over, and eventually slumped to a 70-run defeat in the first four-day match in Sylhet.
The day began on a positive note for the home side. Resuming at 216/5, New Zealand were bowled out for 257, thanks to tight bowling by Hasan Murad and Nayeem Hasan. Nayeem struck early to dismiss centurion Nick Kelly, who had anchored New Zealand’s innings. Murad ended with five wickets, while Nayeem claimed four.
With a target of 246, Bangladesh ‘A’ faltered early in their second innings. Anamul Haque Bijoy scored 16, while Mahmudul Hasan Joy and Amit Hasan both failed to contribute meaningfully. Zakir Hasan and Mahidul Islam Ankon tried to steady the ship, with Zakir making a half-century off 89 balls before being dismissed.
Mahidul found some support from Nurul Hasan Sohan, who made 27 off 52 balls. However, Sohan’s departure was followed by a mini-collapse — Nayeem scored just 6 off 5 deliveries. Ankon continued to fight, holding the innings together from one end.
But just as it seemed Bangladesh might salvage a draw, Adithya Ashok struck in a decisive over, taking three wickets and swinging the momentum completely. Bangladesh ultimately folded for 175, with Ankon left stranded on an unbeaten 57 off 167 balls. Ashok finished with impressive figures, claiming five wickets.
The match, once within grasp, slipped through Bangladesh’s fingers due to overly cautious batting and a lack of urgency — a harsh lesson against a clinical New Zealand ‘A’ side.
