Relentless precipitation disrupts second T20I encounter after 11 overs

 

NDTV Sport

This outcome solidifies Bangladesh's grip on the trophy as they advance to the final game with a 1-0 lead.

Mount Maunganui experienced a substantial turnout on Friday, marking the commencement of the year-end weekend. However, the precipitation ultimately dictated the outcome of the second T20I clash between New Zealand and Bangladesh, allowing for only 11 overs of gameplay.

At the 11-over mark, the contest was evenly poised, with New Zealand standing at 72 for 2. Bangladesh managed to stage a comeback following Tim Seifert's early aggressive batting.

Seifert notched up 43 runs in 23 deliveries, comprising six boundaries and one six. However, it wasn't an entirely spectacular display. Craig McMillan, providing commentary, aptly remarked, "he swung like a rusty gate," vividly capturing the opener's performance, featuring a few fortuitous boundaries off unconventional shots that contributed to New Zealand's initial momentum.

Despite the unconventional start, Seifert's innings held significance, especially considering Finn Allen's dismissal while attempting to drive Shoriful Islam to cover in the second over. Daryl Mitchell, batting at No. 3, struggled to find rhythm after Bangladesh chose to bowl. In the eighth over, Seifert, standing at 8, took a blow to the side of his helmet at the non-striker's end when Mitchell unleashed a powerful drive. However, he continued after receiving approval from the physio.

Mitchell faced difficulties during his 24-ball stay, managing only 18 runs. He appeared intent on overpowering Bangladesh's fast bowlers or the legspinner Rishad Hossain. Rishad's three overs, conceding 3.33 runs each, effectively contained Mitchell and the No. 4 batsman Glenn Phillips (9* in 14 balls).

The challenging outfield conditions were compounded by Bangladesh's commendable fielding, tightening the grip on New Zealand. Soumya Sarkar, patrolling long-on, remained vigilant down the ground, while Najmul Hossain Shanto's skillful catch from cover removed the rampaging Seifert in the eighth over.

A light drizzle escalated, prompting the players to leave the field. Even with a truncated chase adjusted by the DLS method, Bangladesh would have required 46 runs in five overs, though those aspirations were slim. The rain persisted, intensifying, and the umpires called off the match at 9.55 pm local time.

The washout on Friday cements Bangladesh's position, ensuring they will have a firm grasp on the T20I trophy as they head into Sunday's final. New Zealand's only hope is to level the series in the third T20I on December 31, with the hosts trailing 0-1.

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