Blair Tickner produced a decisive four-wicket burst as New Zealand defeated Bangladesh by 26 runs in the first ODI in Dhaka.
Chasing 248, Bangladesh were well placed before collapsing late, losing six wickets for 37 runs to be bowled out for 221. Towhid Hridoy (55) and Saif Hassan (57) led the resistance, but Tickner’s strikes in the death overs sealed the win. Earlier, Henry Nicholls anchored New Zealand with 68, while Dean Foxcroft added a crucial 59 to push the total to 247/8.
The victory gives New Zealand a 1-0 lead in the three-match series after holding their nerve in crunch moments.