Cardiff : Courtesy a staggering partnership from Shakib Al Hasan and Mahmudullah, Bangladesh beat New Zealand by five wickets in a league match of the Champions Trophy on Friday. The two came together when Bangladesh were tottering at four for 33 but stitched together a mammoth 224 runs. Set a target of 266, Bangladesh made 268 for five in 47.2 overs. The top scorer for them was Shakib who made 114. Meanwhile Mahmudullah scored 102.
For New Zealand, as far as the bowling went, Tim Southee had figures of three for 45 and Trent Boult finished with one for 48.
Earlier, after winning the toss and electing to bat, New Zealand posted 265 for eight in their allotted 50 overs. Ross Taylor top scored with 63. Also playing his part was Kane Williamson who made 57.
As far as the bowling went for Bangladesh, Mosaddek Hossain bagged three wickets, giving away 13 runs and Taskin Ahmed on the other hand had figures of two for 43.
Despite the win today (Friday), Bangladesh have not booked a place in the final, not as yet. Tomorrow (Saturday), Australia will take on England. And if Australia are able to beat England, then they will pip Bangladesh to move into the semi-finals.
From this group (Group A), England are through to the semi-finals and New Zealand are out of the tournament. Meanwhile, as far as Group B is concerned, there are four teams that are locked on two points each. Eventually we will have two virtual quarterfinals from this group.
India will play South Africa and Sri Lanka will battle Pakistan for a place in the semi-finals.