In the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy Cricket, New Zealand triumphed over Bangladesh by five wickets in a Group A match in Rawalpindi last night. The victory ensured the Kiwis a place in the semifinals from Group A, alongside India. New Zealand and India now have four points each from two wins in Group A, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the semifinals. The result also marked the elimination of both Bangladesh and the defending champions, Pakistan, who have lost both of their matches so far.
Earlier, after being sent into bat, Bangladesh scored 236 for nine in their allotted 50 overs. Skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto was the top scorer for the Bangla Tigers, with 77 runs. For New Zealand, Michael Bracewell claimed 4 wickets.
In response, New Zealand chased down the target with ease, finishing at 240 for 5 in 46.1 overs. Rachin Ravindra played a blistering knock of 112 runs to guide the Kiwis to victory. Bracewell was adjudged the Player of the Match.
Today, South Africa will face Australia in a Group B match in Rawalpindi. The match is scheduled to begin at 2:30 PM IST. In their previous matches, South Africa defeated Afghanistan by 107 runs, while Australia triumphed over England by 5 wickets.