United News of Bangladesh

Bangladesh A clinched the three-match unofficial ODI series against New Zealand A with an 87-run victory in the second game at the Sylhet International Stadium on Wednesday. Having also won the opener by seven wickets, the hosts now lead the series 2–0. Captain Nurul Hasan starred with the bat, smashing a 101-ball 112, while Mahidul Islam Ankon added 105 off 108 deliveries as Bangladesh A posted a daunting total of 344 for 5. The pair added 225 runs for the fourth wicket, laying the foundation for a high-scoring total after a brisk start from the top order. New Zealand A, who chose to field first after winning the toss, struggled to contain the runs despite early breakthroughs. Shamit Shome gets FIFA nod to play for Bangladesh Kristian Clarke and Adithya Ashok claimed two wickets between them, but the visitors’ attack lacked penetration in the middle overs. In response, Dale Phillips gave New Zealand A a quick start with a fluent 79 off 54 balls, but the chase quickly faltered. Mosaddek Hossain triggered the collapse with a three-wicket burst, and Shoriful Islam and Tanvir Islam chipped in with two wickets apiece. The visitors were eventually bowled out for 257 in 43.1 overs, falling well short of the target. Only Kristian Clarke (39) and Mitchell Hay (38) offered some resistance in the latter half of the innings. Nurul Hasan was named Player of the Match for his match-defining century. With the series already secured, Bangladesh A will look to complete a clean sweep in the final match, which will take place at the same venue on May 10.  After the one-dayers, both teams will lock horns in a two-match unofficial Test series in Sylhet.

Walton has become the title sponsor of the upcoming two-match Test series between Bangladesh and New Zealand. The official name of the event will be "Walton Test Series." A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed between Walton and ITW Sports Tuesday in the capital. Walton Senior Executive Director Uday Hakim, Chief Marketing Officer Firoj Alam and ITW Bangladesh Representative Omar Hoque were present. READ: Walton brings new smartwatch "It is a proud moment for Bangladesh – Walton will sponsor an international tournament. We are with cricket and will always be," Uday said. "Walton has been sponsoring almost all major domestic cricket events in Bangladesh for a long time." The first match of the Bangladesh-New Zealand series will start at Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui Saturday. The second match will be hosted at Hagley Oval in Christchurch from January 9. Gazi TV and T Sports will telecast the matches live. The Bangladesh team is now staying in New Zealand and taking to the field after ending their home quarantine period.