Rain forces points split in Bangladesh–New Zealand clash

Bangladesh U-19 team find themselves in a delicate situation after their second match of the ICC Men’s U-19 World Cup, against New Zealand, was washed out in Bulawayo on Tuesday.

The young Tigers are now third in Group B with a solitary point from two matches after losing their opening clash against India, who are at the top with four points from two games.

In second are New Zealand who previously played against the USA, and that match also ended with a points split. The Kiwis have two points from as many games while the Americans are at the bottom with one point from two matches.

If Bangladesh’s last encounter against the USA is also marred by rain, then the young Tigers will be at risk of elimination from the tournament they won in 2020.

On Tuesday, the toss was conducted late due to rain and wet outfield. Bangladesh captain Azizul Hakim won the toss and chose to bowl first. New Zealand openers Aryan Mann and Hugo Bogue came out to start the Kiwi innings, and Bangladesh pacer Iqbal Hossain Emon soon shattered Hugo’s stumps in just the second over.

Rain came pouring down again, and the match was reduced to 47 overs per side. The game resumed, but after the first power play of 10 overs, rain again intervened as a result of which the tie was called off.

Now, the U-19 boys will turn their attention to the do-or-die match against the USA on Friday, 23 January, in Harare.