Bangladesh’s quest for their inaugural T20I series victory in New Zealand faces a postponement until Sunday as the second T20I in Mount Maunganui on Friday was curtailed after 11 overs due to persistent rain. Opting to field first, Bangladesh’s Shoriful Islam made an early breakthrough, dismissing Finn Allen, caught at cover. Tim Seifert then launched a counterattack, amassing a brisk 43 off 23 balls with 6 fours and a six, until falling to Tanzim Hasan Sakib.
Rain halted play at 8:00 pm local time with New Zealand at 72/2 after 11 overs. Despite the cut-off time for a 5-over game being 10:28 pm, incessant rain forced the abandonment of the match at 9:55 pm. The third and final T20I is slated for New Year’s Eve at the same venue, concluding Bangladesh’s tour of New Zealand.
The Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui, is expected to witness a matchday temperature of 25°C with a RealFeel® of 27°C. Cloudy and humid conditions, occasional rain at 3.88mm, and a possibility of afternoon thunderstorms are anticipated, making the encounter weather-dependent. Spectators and players should brace for changing conditions during the game.
With the abandoned second T20I leaving the series in Bangladesh’s favour 1-0, the third match becomes pivotal. Bangladesh aim to secure their maiden T20I series win in New Zealand, and the rain-marred second encounter showcased glimpses of competitive cricket.
Finn Allen’s early dismissal and Tim Seifert’s aggressive innings were highlights before the weather intervened. The New Year’s Eve clash holds significance for both teams, and fans anticipate an exciting and closely contested final T20I. The unpredictable weather adds suspense, enhancing the drama on the field as Bangladesh’s tour of New Zealand concludes with the potential for a historic series victory.
