In a rain-affected second Test, Glenn Phillips and Mitchell Santner played crucial roles in helping New Zealand chase down 137 runs for a series-leveling four-wicket victory against Bangladesh.
Facing a challenging wicket, New Zealand had stumbled to 69-6 but Phillips and Santner’s 70-run partnership for the seventh wicket rescued the innings. Phillips’ not-out 40 and Santner’s unbeaten 35 saw New Zealand reach 139-6 on Day 4.
The victory marked New Zealand’s first win on Bangladesh soil since 2008. The first test had been won by Bangladesh by 150 runs. Left-arm spinner Ajaz Patel was a key figure for New Zealand, claiming 6-57 as Bangladesh was dismissed for 172 in its second innings.
This set a target of 137 runs for New Zealand to secure the win, and Phillips and Santner’s partnership secured the vital victory.
The win comes as a significant achievement for New Zealand, leveling the series against a formidable Bangladesh side.
The rain interruptions and challenging pitch conditions added to the complexity of the match. The result sets the stage for an intriguing series decider, with both teams now having a victory to their name in the series.