Bangladesh have further strengthened their fast bowling squad by including Tanzeem Hasan Saqib in the squad for the third and final ODI against New Zealand in Chittagong today, as both teams look to clinch the series in a close contest.
Tanzeem, a right-arm fast bowler, is making a comeback to the national set-up after missing the series against Pakistan last month due to a back injury. He was initially not part of Bangladesh’s playing group for the opening two matches against the Black Caps, in which the country registered one win each.
Tanzim, a right-arm pace bowler, makes his return to the national setup after missing last month”s series against Pakistan due to a back injury. He was not initially part of Bangladesh”s playing group for the opening two encounters against the Black Caps, which saw each nation secure one victory.
The strategic inclusion of the 23-year-old provides Bangladesh with an additional pace option for the decisive match, reflecting the significant influence fast bowling has exerted throughout the series. Tanzim was Bangladesh”s most effective speedster at the ICC Men”s T20 World Cup in 2024, claiming eleven wickets, and has been a consistent presence in the side”s white-ball format since his international debut against India late in 2023.
His call-up follows a remarkable performance by fellow pacer Nahid Rana, who dominated the second game on Monday by securing a five-wicket haul. This Player of the Match display significantly contributed to New Zealand being dismissed for a modest 198 in Dhaka.
New Zealand opener Nick Kelly, who top-scored with 83, acknowledged Rana”s impact, stating, “He”s a really exciting young talent. He bowls with good pace, and the wicket suited him. There was a bit more grass, and he got some swing at mid-to-high 140s (km/h).” Kelly further praised Rana”s ability to “attack the stumps more, got swing, and used the extra bounce well,” particularly noting his impressive sustained speeds in challenging heat.
The hosts comfortably chased the victory target in the second ODI, courtesy of half-centuries from Tanzid Hasan (76) and Najmul Hossain Shanto (50). The series is now level at one win apiece, setting the stage for a thrilling finale.
The full Bangladesh squad comprises: Mehidy Hasan Miraz (c), Soumya Sarkar, Saif Hassan, Tanzid Hassan, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Towhid Hridoy, Litton Das, Afif Hossain, Mahidul Islam, Rishad Hossain, Tanvir Islam, Mustafizur Rahman, Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful Islam, Nahid Rana, and Tanzim Hasan Sakib. The third ODI is scheduled for Thursday, April 23, in Chattogram.