New Zealand vs Bangladesh 2019, 1st ODI, Napier - Martin Guptill Scores 100 in Return Game; Helps Hosts Take 1-0 Lead

New Zealand and Bangladesh kicked off their preparations for 2019 World Cup with their last international assignment – the three-match ODI series on the Kiwi shores on Wednesday (February 13th). In the first ODI at the McLean Park in Napier, the hosts took an early. Courtesy a hundred in his returning game from Martin Guptill; New Zealand won the match by eight wickets. Meanwhile, Trent Boult and left-arm spinner, Mitchell Santner took three wickets each in the game.

Mohammad Mithun saves Tigers’ day despite a poor start

Mashrafe Mortaza won the toss, and Bangladesh batted first in Napier. Trent Boult, who was on rest for the India T20Is made a strong comeback, helping New Zealand reduce the Tigers to 42 for four at one stage. The absence of Shakib Al Hasan hurt them, as no one seemed to play the anchor role in the middle overs.

Meanwhile, Mohammad Mithun’s 62 off 90 deliveries did some rescue work for the visitors, but they couldn’t make the best out of it. As a result, Bangladesh’s innings got wrapped on 232. Alongside Boult, who finished with figures of 3/40, Mitchell Santner also picked as many wickets.

Guptill shines in the comeback game

The New Zealanders struggled to win the India ODIs as none of their openers provided a good start in five games. However, the tables seem to have turned now. In the absence of his regular partner, Colin Munro, Guptill shouldered the responsibility of getting the job done. As he was coming off from a back injury, the right-handed batsman didn’t begin aggressively; keeping it subtle in the start.

He altered gears and started with the onslaught later on. Though Martin lost Henry Nicholls after the pair put up 103 for the first wicket, Guptill then joined hands with captain Williamson to chase the target. Kane, who has had a forgettable series against India continued with his poor form; getting out on 11 to Mahmudullah.

Meanwhile, a 96-run stand with the veteran batsman, Ross Taylor, Guptill helped the Kiwis win the match by eight wickets. In the meantime, Martin Guptill completed his 15th ODI century.

Brief score –

BAN – 232 (Mohammad Mithun – 62 off 90 balls; Trent Boult – 3/40, Mitchell Santner – 3/45)

NZ – 233/2 (Martin Guptill – 117*off 116, Henry Nicholls 53 off 80)