Sports Desk:

Bangladesh A clinched the three-match unofficial ODI series against New Zealand A with an 87-run victory in the second game at the Sylhet International Stadium on Wednesday.

Having also won the opener by seven wickets, the hosts now lead the series 2–0.

Captain Nurul Hasan starred with the bat, smashing a 101-ball 112, while Mahidul Islam Ankon added 105 off 108 deliveries as Bangladesh A posted a daunting total of 344 for 5.

The pair added 225 runs for the fourth wicket, laying the foundation for a high-scoring total after a brisk start from the top order.

New Zealand A, who chose to field first after winning the toss, struggled to contain the runs despite early breakthroughs.

Kristian Clarke and Adithya Ashok claimed two wickets between them, but the visitors’ attack lacked penetration in the middle overs.

In response, Dale Phillips gave New Zealand A a quick start with a fluent 79 off 54 balls, but the chase quickly faltered. Mosaddek Hossain triggered the collapse with a three-wicket burst, and Shoriful Islam and Tanvir Islam chipped in with two wickets apiece.

The visitors were eventually bowled out for 257 in 43.1 overs, falling well short of the target.

Only Kristian Clarke (39) and Mitchell Hay (38) offered some resistance in the latter half of the innings.

Nurul Hasan was named Player of the Match for his match-defining century.

With the series already secured, Bangladesh A will look to complete a clean sweep in the final match, which will take place at the same venue on May 10.

After the one-dayers, both teams will lock horns in a two-match unofficial Test series in Sylhet.