Dane Cleaver and Katene Clarke scored rapid half-centuries to propel New Zealand to 182-6 against Bangladesh in the first Twenty20 international on Monday.

Bangladesh needs 183 runs to secure a victory.

After Bangladesh won the toss and elected to field at the Bir Sreshtho Flight Lieutenant Matiur Rahman Stadium, the hosts' bowling attack, led by leg-spinner Rishad Hossain (2-32), successfully pulled back the scoring rate following a dominant New Zealand powerplay.

New Zealand suffered an early setback when Tim Robinson was run out for a duck in the second over. However, Cleaver quickly shifted the momentum, playing a creative innings featuring scoops and classical shots.

He struck seven boundaries and a six in his 28-ball 51. Clarke, who survived a dropped catch by Saif Hassan on 44, anchored the other end to score 51 off 37 deliveries.

The pair built an 88-run partnership before Rishad broke through, trapping Cleaver lbw. Both set batters were dismissed shortly after reaching their half-centuries while attempting reverse sweeps.

Following the breakthrough, Bangladesh restricted New Zealand's middle order as wickets fell at regular intervals.

Captain Nick Kelly attempted to rebuild with a composed 39 off 27 balls, but his departure in the 18th over, caught off Shoriful Islam (1-36), stalled the visitors' push for a 200-plus total. Josh Clarkson added an unbeaten 27 from 14 balls in the final overs to ensure a competitive score.

Mahedi Hasan and Tanzim Hasan Sakib claimed one wicket apiece. Ripon Mondol delivered a precise final over, utilizing yorkers to concede only six runs. However, he ended up giving up 39 runs in four overs.