Sports Desk:

Bangladesh A opened their unofficial ODI series in emphatic fashion, cruising to a seven-wicket win over New Zealand A in the first match at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium on Monday.

It was the bowlers who set up the victory, dismissing the visitors for just 147 in 34.3 overs.

Pacer Khaled Ahmed led the charge with figures of 3 for 27 and was deservedly named Player of the Match. Left-arm spinner Tanvir Islam also picked up three wickets, while Shoriful Islam and Ebadot Hossain shared four between them.

New Zealand A’s innings never got going, as they collapsed to 13 for 4 within seven overs. Only opener Rhys Mariu (42) and Dean Foxcroft (72 off 64) showed any resistance. The rest of the batting lineup crumbled under relentless pressure from the hosts’ bowling unit.

Chasing 148, Bangladesh A made light work of the target, reaching 149 for 3 in 27.2 overs. Mahidul Islam Ankon guided the chase with a steady unbeaten 42, while captain Nurul Hasan supported him with 20 not out. Earlier, Parvez Hossain Emon struck a brisk 24 off 12 balls and Anamul Haque added 38.

Kristian Clarke was the only Kiwi bowler to find success, taking 2 for 30, but Bangladesh A’s batters ensured there were no hiccups.