New Zealand maintain unbeaten run against Bangladesh
New Zealand sealed their fourth win in four games with a 75-run victory against Bangladesh at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. The Black Caps sail through to the semi-final after topping Group 2.
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The Black Caps were already assured of a semi-final spot, but their bowlers produced a triumphant performance to defend 146 with ease and maintain their 100% winning record so far.
Skipper Kane Williamson struck four fours and a six in the opening five overs, taking the Kiwis to 145-8.
Allrounder Grant Elliott took three wickets for 12 runs in his four overs while Ish Sodhi chipped in with three for 21.
The Tigers can take consolation from their 20-year-old left-armer, Mustafizur Rahman, who produced a fine display, taking five for 22 and outplaying the New Zealand batsmen with slower-ball cutters.
Mustafizur befuddled the batsmen throughout, claiming wickets in consecutive deliveries in the final over.
After 11 overs Bangladesh had made 45 for six when a floodlight failure brought the game to a halt for over 10 minutes.
They then continued to struggle with the Black Caps' bowling prowess, and their innings only featured one six, from Rahman.
Their total of 70 is their lowest in any Twenty20 international, with the record previously standing at 78, and the Tigers leave the competition without a win.
New Zealand top Group 2, and are now likely to play either England, Sri Lanka or South Africa in the first semi-final in New Delhi on March 30.
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