Cricbuzzteam,New Zealand appears to be the team to beat in this World Cup, having convincingly won both of their matches and secured the top position on the table with a remarkable net run rate of 1.958. Their next challenge will be against Bangladesh at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.
New Zealand has an impeccable record against Bangladesh in ODI World Cups and should enter this match with high confidence. However, the Chennai pitch is known to favor spin bowling, and Bangladesh’s spinners could pose a threat to New Zealand’s batsmen.
NZ VS BAN Teams Previews:
New Zealand: The Kiwis are functioning seamlessly as a well-coordinated unit. They have registered comprehensive victories against England and the Netherlands and are poised to make it three in a row. Of note is Rachin Ravindra, who has emerged as a star in the World Cup.
This spin-bowling all-rounder has been promoted to the No. 3 spot and has delivered outstanding performances with scores of 123* and 51 against England and the Netherlands, respectively, significantly bolstering New Zealand’s batting lineup. Keep an eye on Devon Conway, whose unbeaten 152 against England showcased his prowess in playing spin bowling. Daryl Mitchell, with an average of 43.75 in ODIs this year and three centuries to his name, is another key player to watch.
On the bowling front: Mitchell Santner is likely to be the difference-maker on this spin-friendly pitch. Trent Boult’s opening spell can also be a challenge for the opposition.
New Zealand Predicted Playing XI
- Devon Conway
- Will Young
- Rachin Ravindra
- Daryl Mitchell
- Tom Latham (c & wk)
- Glenn Phillips
- Mark Chapman
- Mitchell Santner
- Matt Henry
- Lockie Ferguson
- Trent Boult
Bangladesh: Bangladesh is coming off a significant 137-run loss to England, which pushed them to the sixth position in the table with a reduced net run rate. However, they will find solace in the Chennai pitch that favors spin.
Shakib Al Hasan will be the main bowler for Bangladesh, using his guile and experience to create problems for the opposition. Mahedi Hasan and Mehidy Hasan Miraz will likely play crucial roles with their spin bowling. Shoriful Islam, known for his variations and cutters, can make a difference in the death overs.
Bangladesh’s batting, though, has been inconsistent. Aside from Shakib, Najmul Hossain Shanto and Litton Das are key contributors, and Mushfiqur Rahim’s experience makes him a crucial player.
Bangladesh Predicted Playing XI:
- Tanzid Hasan
- Litton Das
- Najmul Hossain Shanto
- Shakib Al Hasan (c)
- Mehidy Hasan Miraz
- Mushfiqur Rahim (wk)
- Towhid Hridoy
- Mahedi Hasan
- Taskin Ahmed
- Shoriful Islam
- Mustafizur Rahman
Weather Conditions:
The MA Chidambaram Stadium pitch is slow and favors spin bowling, with seamers getting initial movement and bounce. However, as the ball gets older, they become less effective. Batsmen will need solid technique and patience to excel on this pitch, while spinners will dominate due to consistent slow spin. The weather in Chennai is expected to be warm and humid.
Venue Details
The average score for the team batting first at the MA Chidambaram Stadium is 231, indicating this is unlikely to be a high-scoring match. Both New Zealand and Bangladesh have skilled spinners, and the team batting first should aim for a total of around 260-270.
Toss Recommendation:
The team winning the toss might be tempted to chase, given recent trends. However, the searing heat and humidity might compel them to bat first and set a substantial total.