Persistent rain disrupted the second T20I match between Bangladesh and New Zealand today at the Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui. The game was limited to only 11 overs before being called off. Despite the umpires waiting until the end and considering a five-over contest, the rain didn’t let up, leading to an early end to the match. Just 66 balls were bowled during this brief period of play. The third and final T20 is scheduled for Sunday at Mount Maunganui, where Bangladesh has a chance to secure their first series win in New Zealand in any format.

“We’re grateful for this opportunity and will do our best. We have full confidence in winning the series, In Sha Allah. In this series, we focus on the positives and don’t see any negatives. Catch-misses can happen, and we’re taking it in stride. Hoping for a better performance in the next match, In Sha Allah,” said Rishad after the match. He bowled economically, giving away only 10 runs in three overs without taking any wickets.

Tim Seifert scored 43 runs off 23 balls for the Kiwis before getting caught, ending his second-wicket partnership of 49 with Daryl Mitchell just as rain began to fall.

Seifert praised young Rishad, saying, “He bowled very well. Despite the strong Save wind, he bowled into it and hitting straight was tough. The boys played him well, and credit to him for bowling well in the first two overs.”