New Zealand stormed into the semi-finals of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 with a commanding five-wicket victory over Bangladesh in their Group A encounter at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.

Chasing a target of 237, the Kiwis reached the finish line in the 47th over, thanks to a brilliant century by Rachin Ravindra.

The Black Caps had a shaky start, losing two quick wickets with just 15 runs on the board.

However, Ravindra steadied the innings, crafting a crucial 129-run partnership with Tom Latham (55). Skipper Kane Williamson managed only five runs before falling early.

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Ravindra’s masterclass saw him notch up his fourth career century, scoring a splendid 112 off 105 balls, including 12 fours and a six. Glenn Phillips (21*) and captain Michael Bracewell (11*) ensured the chase was completed comfortably.

For Bangladesh, Taskin Ahmed, Naheed Rana, Rishad Hossain, and Mustafizur Rahman took one wicket each but failed to defend the modest total. Bangladesh’s struggle with the bat

Earlier, Bangladesh, after being put into bat by New Zealand, struggled to capitalise on a solid opening stand.

Najmul Hossain Shanto and Tanzid Hasan provided a steady start, adding 45 runs for the first wicket.

However, the middle order collapsed, failing to build on the platform.

Tanzid Hasan departed for 24, followed by a flurry of wickets. Mehidy Hasan Miraz (13), Towhid Hridoy (7), Mushfiqur Rahim (2), and Mahmudullah (4) fell cheaply.

Shanto anchored the innings with a composed 77, supported by Zakir Ali’s 45-run effort.

Rishad Hossain chipped in with a handy 26, while Taskin Ahmed added 10 runs before Bangladesh finished at 236/9 in their 50 overs.

Michael Bracewell starred with the ball for New Zealand, picking up four wickets, while Will O’Rourke claimed two. Matt Henry and Kyle Jamieson took one wicket each.

Toss and team changes

New Zealand skipper Mitchell Santner won the toss and opted to field first, making two changes in the playing XI.

Kyle Jamieson replaced Nathan Smith, while Rachin Ravindra was brought in for Daryl Mitchell.

Santner emphasised the challenge of playing in Rawalpindi, stating, “Batting first could have been an option, but we’re playing good cricket and ready for any challenge.”

Bangladesh, led by Shanto, brought in Mahmudullah and pacer Naheed Rana, replacing Soumya Sarkar and Tanzim Hasan.

Bangladesh Playing XI: Najmul Hossain Shanto (c), Tanzid Hasan, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Towhid Hridoy, Mushfiqur Rahim, Mahmudullah, Jaker Ali, Rishad Hossain, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Naheed Rana.

New Zealand Playing XI: Mitchell Santner (c), Will Young, Devon Conway, Kane Williamson, Tom Latham, Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Matt Henry, Will O’Rourke, Kyle Jamieson.