Bangladesh vs New Zealand Predicted Playing 11:New Zealand will aim to maintain their winning momentum as they face Bangladesh in a crucial ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Group A encounter on Monday at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. The Black Caps, having secured a dominant win over Pakistan in their tournament opener, will look to seal their spot in the knockout stage. Meanwhile, Bangladesh finds itself in a must-win situation, with a loss set to eliminate both them and Pakistan from the competition.
With India currently leading Group A with four points, a New Zealand victory would confirm their qualification alongside India, leaving Bangladesh and Pakistan to play their final game for pride. However, the Bangla Tigers have the potential to spring a surprise and keep their campaign alive.
Star all-rounder Rachin Ravindra is expected to sit out once again as the Kiwis opt for an unchanged lineup. Will Young’s century against Pakistan in the absence of Ravindra has solidified his place in the XI. Ravindra, who suffered a forehead injury in a Tri-Series match against Pakistan, is being gradually eased back into the squad despite recovering well.
In a bid to strengthen their pace attack on the seam-friendly Rawalpindi pitch, Bangladesh is likely to include fast bowler Nahid Rana. The young pacer, who impressed in a Test series against Pakistan last year, could replace an extra spinner in the lineup. His familiarity with the conditions at Rawalpindi may give Bangladesh a much-needed edge in this do-or-die clash.
BAN vs NZ Predicted Playing XIs
Bangladesh: Tanzid Hasan, Soumya Sarkar, Najmul Hossain Shanto (c), Towhid Hridoy, Mushfiqur Rahim/Mahmudullah, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Jaker Ali, Rishad Hossain, Nahid Rana, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman
New Zealand: Devon Conway, Will Young, Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner (c), Nathan Smith, Matt Henry, William O’Rourke
With high stakes on the line, Bangladesh will be eager to put up a strong fight and keep their semi-final hopes alive. Meanwhile, New Zealand will look to extend their winning streak and secure a smooth passage to the next round.
