New Zealand secured a spot in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 semifinals with a five-wicket win over Bangladesh. Rachin Ravindra played a crucial role, scoring a century that guided his team to victory despite early setbacks. Moreover, this win confirmed India's place in the semifinals while eliminating hosts Pakistan and Bangladesh.

Bracewell’s Bowling Sets the Tone

Before Ravindra's heroics, Michael Bracewell dominated with the ball. He delivered a match-winning performance, taking 4/26 in 10 overs as New Zealand restricted Bangladesh to 236 for nine.

Early Setbacks for New Zealand

Chasing 237, New Zealand suffered early blows. First, Taskin Ahmed dismissed Will Young for a duck with a sharp inswinger. Soon after, Nahid Rana removed Kane Williamson (5), who edged a drive to Mushfiqur Rahim. As a result, with just 15 runs on the board, New Zealand faced a tough challenge. Ravindra and Devon Conway then steadied the innings with a 57-run stand. However, Mustafizur Rahman bowled Conway (30), leaving New Zealand struggling at 72 for three in the 16th over.

Ravindra and Latham Turn the Game Around

With New Zealand under pressure, Ravindra and Tom Latham built a match-winning 129-run partnership. Ravindra displayed confidence, scoring 112 off 105 balls, including 12 fours and a six. Meanwhile, Latham contributed 55 off 76 deliveries. Thanks to their solid stand, New Zealand comfortably reached the target in 46.1 overs.

Bangladesh’s Inconsistent Batting Performance

Opting to bat first, Bangladesh started steadily. Najmul Hossain Shanto and Tanzid Hasan put on 45 runs before Bracewell broke the stand. Tanzid (24) mistimed a shot, and Williamson took a diving catch at midwicket.

Mehidy Hasan Miraz showed intent, hitting a six early in his innings. However, he fell for 13, failing to clear mid-on while attempting a chip shot. Consequently, Bangladesh continued losing wickets at regular intervals. Towhid Hridoy (7) was dismissed after Williamson took another sharp catch. Shortly after, Mushfiqur Rahim added just two runs before Ravindra caught him at deep mid-wicket.

Shanto’s Resistance Not Enough

Shanto fought hard, reaching his half-century, but Bangladesh struggled with 86 dot balls in the first 21 overs. Additionally, Mahmudullah threw away his wicket with a mistimed shot, handing Bracewell his fourth wicket. William O’Rourke later dismissed Shanto (77 off 110 balls), further weakening Bangladesh’s position. Although Jaker Ali (45 off 55) provided some resistance, Bangladesh failed to set a competitive total.

New Zealand Advances to the Semifinals

Despite early struggles, New Zealand’s middle order ensured a smooth chase. Ultimately, this victory placed them in the semifinals alongside India, while Bangladesh and Pakistan exited the tournament. In the end, New Zealand’s all-round performance proved too strong for Bangladesh in this crucial clash.