The second T20I match between Bangladesh and New Zealand was abandoned on April 29, 2026, in Chattogram, due to heavy rain and thunderstorms. This leaves Bangladesh with a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
Key match facts:
- The match was called off at 4:15 PM local time, just an hour before the official cut-off time.
- Persistent rain throughout the day meant the covers remained on the field, rendering it unplayable.
- This abandonment follows Bangladesh’s victory in the first T20I, where they chased down 183 runs with two overs to spare.
Fans were hopeful for action at the Bir Sreshtho Flight Lieutenant Matiur Rahman Stadium, especially after Bangladesh’s impressive performance in the first match. Tawhid Hridoy shone as a key player during that game, contributing significantly to their win by six wickets against New Zealand.
Both teams had prepared for this encounter, but weather conditions forced them into indoor training sessions instead. As Nick Kelly of New Zealand noted, “The covers have taken over the Chittagong ground due to rain and the toss has been delayed.” The disappointment was palpable among players and fans alike.
The third and final T20I is scheduled for May 2, 2026, in Dhaka. However, similar weather conditions are forecasted for that date as well. Officials have not confirmed how this might affect the match preparations.
The pressure will be on the Black Caps when they take the field next. They will need to regroup quickly if they hope to level the series against a confident Bangladesh team.
