Bangladesh A vs New Zealand A – 1st Unofficial Test Match Preview (14 May 2025)

Venue: Sylhet International Cricket Stadium
Date & Time: Wednesday, 14 May 2025, 09:00 AM (GMT +6)
Format: Unofficial Test Match
Series: New Zealand A tour of Bangladesh

Match Overview

The 1st Unofficial Test between Bangladesh A and New Zealand A is set to kick off the two sides' five-match series in Bangladesh. This encounter will be played at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium, a venue known for producing competitive games with a balance between batting and bowling.

The match is expected to be a tight contest, with both teams having shown strong performances in the recent unofficial ODIs that preceded this Test. The series has been a back-and-forth affair so far, with Bangladesh A winning the first two ODIs and New Zealand A coming back strongly in the third to take a 1-2 lead.

Team Form and Recent Performances

Bangladesh A

• Last 6 Matches (vs New Zealand A):
  • Win (07/05/2025) by 87 runs
  • Win (05/05/2025) by 7 wickets with 136 balls remaining
  • Loss (10/05/2025) by 4 wickets with 10 balls remaining

Bangladesh A has shown a strong home record in this series, particularly in white-ball games, where they've managed to control the tempo and exploit the conditions. With a solid batting lineup and a potent pace attack on home soil, they will be confident of challenging New Zealand A in the longer format as well.

New Zealand A

• Last 6 Matches (vs Bangladesh A):
  • Win (10/05/2025) by 4 wickets with 10 balls remaining
  • Loss (07/05/2025) by 87 runs
  • Loss (05/05/2025) by 7 wickets with 136 balls remaining

New Zealand A has shown resilience in their recent ODIs, particularly in the third match where they chased down a target of 335 with 10 balls to spare. Their ability to chase under pressure and their disciplined bowling could be key in this Test. However, they will be aware of the challenges posed by the Sylhet track and the home team's support.

Key Players to Watch

Bangladesh A:

• Shakib Al Hasan (A Team): The all-rounder is expected to lead the charge with both bat and ball.
• Mahedi Hasan Miraz (A Team): A wily off-spinner who has been effective in domestic and international A-level matches.
• Abu Hider (A Team): A promising pace bowler who could trouble the New Zealand batters with his accuracy and seam movement.

New Zealand A:

• Michael Bracewell (A Team): A left-arm spinner with a knack for taking crucial wickets in the middle overs.
• Tim Seifert (A Team): A solid opening batsman with a good record in Test conditions.
• Tom Latham (A Team): A reliable middle-order batsman and a calm presence in the team.

Weather and Pitch Conditions

The Sylhet International Cricket Stadium is likely to offer a pitch with some assistance for spinners, especially in the later stages of the game. The weather is expected to remain dry and warm, which should allow for a full contest without interruptions.

Match Prediction

Based on the recent form and the conditions, the match is expected to be a closely contested affair. However, Bangladesh A has the advantage of home conditions and a strong record in Sylhet, particularly in the longer format. That said, New Zealand A is a formidable side and will be eager to bounce back after their recent defeat.

Predicted Scoreline:

• Bangladesh A: 334
• New Zealand A: 255

Conclusion

This 1st Unofficial Test promises to be an exciting start to the series, with both teams eager to make a statement. The battle between the spinners and the batters, along with the home advantage for Bangladesh A, will be key storylines to watch. Cricket fans can expect a well-fought match at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium on 14 May 2025.

Coverage and updates will be available throughout the match. Stay tuned for live scores and analysis!
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