DHAKA, May 21, 2025 (BSS)-Openers Naim Sheikh and Saif Hasan hit a half-century as Bangladesh A reached 225-4 on Day 1 of the second four-day against New Zealand A at Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium today.

The day was truncated by rain and only 57.3 overs were possible as Bangladesh established its dominance in a bid to draw the two-match series. The home side suffered a 70-run defeat to New Zealand A in the first game.

Naim made a team-best 82 off 94, smashing 10 fours and two sixes while Saif scored 51.

Electing to bat first, Bangladesh A made a solid start thanks to Naim and his fellow opener Anamul Haque Bijoy. The duo added 130 runs for the opening stand after which Bijoy was dismissed for 48, missing his fifty by two runs.

Naim, who appeared set to bring up his century, followed Bijoy as soon as he was outfoxed by left-arm spinner Jayden Lennox.

But Saif helped Bangladesh continue the domination, adding 44 runs with Zakir Hasan who added 19.

Bangladesh faced a hiccup when Saif was dismissed, soon after reaching his half-century.

Amite Hasan and Mahidul Islam Ankon started rebuilding the knock before rain brought an early stump.

Zakary Foulkes claimed 2-40 for New Zealand while Lennox and Matthew Boyle picked up one wicket apiece.