Bangladesh delivered another commanding performance in the second match of the Bangladesh Tour of New Zealand, securing a 44-run win at Wellington and taking a 2–0 series lead. The visitors showcased supreme batting power and disciplined bowling, with Shakib Al Hasan producing one of the finest all-round performances of the tournament.
Bangladesh’s innings was driven by explosive top-order batting, beginning with Liton Das’s blistering 49 off 20 balls, setting a fierce scoring tempo. His stroke-play created the perfect platform for Shakib Al Hasan, who unleashed a sensational 57 off just 21 balls, striking cleanly and consistently to dismantle the New Zealand attack. Munim Shahriar chipped in with a rapid 17 from 6 balls, while Mushfiqur Rahim and Afif Hossain added late finishing touches to push Bangladesh to a formidable 152/4 in 10 overs.
New Zealand’s reply faltered immediately, as the top order collapsed under pressure from Bangladesh’s tight and aggressive bowling. Taskin Ahmed struck early twice, while Shakib Al Hasan’s brilliance continued with the ball, claiming three key wickets and breaking New Zealand’s backbone. Contributions from Nasum Ahmed and Afif Hossain further deepened the hosts’ struggles. Despite resistance from Mark Chapman (27 off 12), Mitchell Santner (19 off 12), and a late push by Adam Milne, New Zealand could muster only 108/9, never threatening the required rate.
The match belonged unequivocally to Shakib Al Hasan, whose exceptional batting and bowling earned him a deserved Player of the Match award. Bangladesh now stands on the brink of a historic series triumph, showcasing unrivaled dominance in both games so far.