New Zealand comfortable despite Tamim ton

Bangladesh opener Tamim Iqbal hit a valiant century but hosts New Zealand still ended the first day of the first Test on top on Thursday.

Tamim hit 126 in 128 balls, slamming 21 fours and a six, yet that could not inspire his fellow batsmen to rise to the occasion.

It was a much-needed innings for the Chittagong ace, who had a series to forget in the ODIs, managing just 10 runs in three matches.
But he banished the blues of that episode and managed his ninth Test century in style on the day.

In fact, all the other batsmen combined made 108 only, 18 less than the left-handed opener’s individual score.

Thanks to his ton, Bangladesh managed a score of more than 200, eventually getting all out on 234.

Liton Das was the team’s second highest scorer with 29 while Shadman Islam made 24 and skipper Mahmudullah 22.

Neil Wagner was the hosts’ key bowler, claiming five wickets while Tim Southee bagged three.

The New Zealand opening pair then made 86 in the day’s remaining 28 overs as Bangladesh bowlers found no joy.

Jeet Raval was unbeaten on 51 while Tom Latham was not out on 35. When the second day’s play gets started, the visitors will need to send them back to the pavilion at the earliest to stand a chance in the game.

At the close of the day, the hosts were trailing the Tigers by 148 runs.