Bangladesh defeated New Zealand by 55 runs in the series-deciding third ODI on Thursday, driven by a five-wicket haul from returning fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman and a century by Najmul Hossain Shanto.

Chasing a target of 266, New Zealand was bowled out for 210 in 44.5 overs. Mustafizur anchored the bowling attack with figures of five for 43, dismantling the middle order after the visitors made a steady start.

Bangladesh captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz praised his bowlers and fielders, noting the team anticipated a pitch offering spin and uneven bounce for the fast bowlers.

"We knew early wickets would bring us momentum," Miraz said after the match. "They know how to bowl in these conditions."

Fast bowler Nahid Rana, who was named Player of the Series after securing eight wickets across the three matches, claimed two wickets in the decider.

"I was only thinking today that my captain has asked me to take wickets," Rana said. "I only assess the conditions and then bowl accordingly."

Dean Foxcroft provided late resistance for the visitors, scoring 75 off 72 deliveries, including seven sixes. Foxcroft attempted to narrow the deficit but was the final wicket to fall, caught off the bowling of Miraz. Nick Kelly added 59 before falling to Rahman.

Earlier, Bangladesh posted 265 for eight after New Zealand won the toss and elected to field. Following a top-order collapse orchestrated by New Zealand fast bowler Will O'Rourke, Shanto and Litton Das stabilized the innings.

Entering the match with the score at 9 for two, Shanto scored 105 from 119 balls to earn Player of the Match honors. Litton contributed 76 from 91 deliveries to push the hosts to a defensible total.

Shanto commended the New Zealand bowlers for their early precision but emphasized the importance of his 160-run partnership with Litton.

"The way Litton played today, really outstanding," Shanto said. "He held one side and I tried to score some runs. It wasn't an easy wicket to bat on. We just tried to make a big partnership."