RAWALPINDI: New Zealand won the toss and opted to bowl first against Bangladesh in Monday’s Champions Trophy 2025 match at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.
The Black Caps made an early breakthrough, dismissing Bangladesh opener Tanzid Hassan within the first 10 overs. Mehdy Miraz, who came in next, was also sent back after scoring just 13 runs in the 12th over. By the end of the 15th over, Bangladesh stood at 78-2.
This is the first match of the ongoing tournament in Rawalpindi, being played under tight security.
New Zealand are aiming to secure a place in the semi-finals, with a victory today also knocking both Bangladesh and hosts Pakistan out of the tournament. If the Black Caps win, India will also advance alongside them.
The Kiwis previously won their opening match against Pakistan, who then suffered another defeat against India, leaving them on the verge of elimination.
Team Changes and Pitch Conditions
New Zealand, led by Mitchell Santner, have made two changes, bringing in pacer Kyle Jamieson and batter Rachin Ravindra. Ravindra, a left-handed batsman and spinner, has recovered from a head injury sustained in a recent tri-series match.
Bangladesh, captained by Najmul Hossain Shanto, need a win to stay in the competition after losing their first game to India. They have also made two changes, with veteran batsman Mahmudullah and fast bowler Nahid Rana replacing Soumya Sarkar and Tanzim Sakib.
Only the top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals, making today’s result crucial for Pakistan’s fate in the tournament.
Security Measures
To ensure a smooth event, over 5,000 police personnel have been deployed, supported by more than 350 traffic officers managing vehicle flow around the stadium.
A special control room has been set up to monitor security arrangements using Safe City and other CCTV cameras. Snipers have been stationed on rooftops, while police, Dolphin Force, and Elite Force units are patrolling the area.
Spectators can only enter the stadium after passing through security checkpoints, including walk-through gates and full-body searches. Parking outside designated areas is strictly prohibited.
Security briefings and inspections are being conducted regularly, with coordination between Rawalpindi Police, the Pakistan Army, Rangers, and other security agencies.
Fans should note that power banks, hands-free devices, AirPods, food items, and other restricted objects are not allowed inside the stadium.
Playing XIs
New Zealand: Devon Conway, Will Young, Kane Williamson, Rachin Ravindra, Tom Latham (WK), Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner (C), Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Will O’Rorke.
Bangladesh: Najmul Hossain Shanto (C), Tanzid Hasan, Tawhid Hridoy, Mushfiqur Rahim, Mehdy Miraz, Mahmudullah, Jaker Ali, Rishad Hossain, Mustafizur Rahman, Nahid Rana, Taskin Ahmed.
