ICC Champions Trophy 2025: New Zealand vs Bangladesh – Match 6 Preview

New Zealand is set to face Bangladesh in the sixth match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, with the game scheduled for Monday, February 24, at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi. After a strong start, New Zealand will be aiming for another victory to inch closer to a spot in the semifinals.

New Zealand's Strong Start

New Zealand kicked off their campaign in style, securing a 60-run win against Pakistan in their opening match. Batting first, they posted a solid total of 320/5, thanks to key performances from Tom Latham (118* runs) and Will Young (107 runs). In reply, Pakistan could only manage 260 runs, with Mitchell Santner leading the charge with the ball, taking 3 wickets.

With the confidence from that victory, New Zealand will now look to maintain their momentum in this game against Bangladesh. A win here would almost guarantee their qualification for the semifinals.

New Zealand's Likely Playing Xi

Here’s a look at the expected playing XI for New Zealand:

Openers: Devon Conway and Will Young

Middle-order and All-rounders: Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham (wk), Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner (c)

Bowlers: Nathan Smith, Matt Henry, William O’Rourke

Conway and Young will open the innings, with Young coming off a match-winning performance in the previous game. Latham, after his brilliant 118*, will again be a key player for New Zealand. In the bowling department, O’Rourke, Henry, and Smith will lead the pace attack, while Santner and Bracewell will provide crucial spin options.

Bangladesh's Challenge

On the other hand, Bangladesh will be hoping for a turnaround after a disappointing 6-wicket loss to India in their first game. They posted 228/8 after a poor start, with Towhid Hridoy scoring a solid 100. However, India chased down the target comfortably, led by Shubman Gill's unbeaten century.

Bangladesh needs to win this game to stay alive in the tournament. Their chances will depend on their bowlers stepping up, and they will hope to put up a stronger total with the bat.

Head-to-Head: New Zealand vs Bangladesh

New Zealand has been dominant in this fixture, winning 33 out of the 45 encounters between the two teams. Bangladesh has managed just 11 wins, with New Zealand coming out on top in 4 of the last 5 ODIs. This history suggests that New Zealand will go into the match as the favorites.

Key Players to Watch

-New Zealand: Tom Latham, Will Young, and Mitchell Santner will be critical for New Zealand. Latham’s form with the bat and Santner’s ability to take wickets make them key players.

Bangladesh: Towhid Hridoy, who scored a century against India, will be one to watch out for. Mehidy Hasan Miraz could also play a key role with both bat and ball.

Match Prediction

Toss Prediction: Bangladesh will likely win the toss.

Winner Prediction: New Zealand is expected to win.

Top Score: Kane Williamson (New Zealand), Tanzid Hasan (Bangladesh)

Top Bowler: Mitchell Santner (New Zealand), Mehidy Hasan Miraz (Bangladesh)

Most Sixes: Daryl Mitchell (New Zealand), Tanzid Hasan (Bangladesh)

Player of the Match: Kane Williamson (New Zealand)

With New Zealand looking strong after their big win over Pakistan, they are the favorites to secure another win. Bangladesh, however, will be determined to turn their fortunes around and keep their semifinal hopes alive.

This will be a crucial match for both teams. New Zealand, with their solid all-around performance, will be eager to keep their momentum going. Bangladesh, needing a win to stay in contention, will have to bring out their best performance yet to challenge the Black Caps.