'Black Caps khatarnak dikh rahi hai' - Fans react to New Zealand's dominance in 2023 ODI World Cup, thrash Bangladesh by 8 wickets

New Zealand continues to prove their dominance in the 2023 ODI World Cup. Their talisman Kane Williamson returned to the side from injury and it once again strengthened them. Bangladesh were thrashed by eight wickets at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Friday, October 13. With three straight wins and an excellent net run rate, the Black Caps have climbed to the top of the points table.

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After being asked to bat first, Bangladesh could not get off to a strong start as they lost opener Liton Das on the very first ball. Trent Boult achieved a historic feat, becoming the first New Zealand bowler to take a wicket on the first ball of the innings in a World Cup match. On the other hand, it was an unforgettable day for Das, who is celebrating his 29th birthday. 

After the early blow, Tanzid Hasan and Mehidy Hasan Miraz tried to form a good partnership, but Lockie Ferguson got rid of the former in the eighth over. Bangladesh lost a couple of more wickets in quick succession and were reeling at 56/4 in 12.1 overs.  However, the veteran duo of captain Shakib Al Hasan and Mushfiqur Rahim steadied the ship and brought them back into the game.

The two stitched a 95-run partnership before Ferguson dismissed Shakib (40 off 51 balls) in the 30th over. Mushfiqur (66 off 75) hit a brilliant half-century while carrying on with youngster Towhid Hridoy, but the two were sent packing in quick succession. Effective cameos from Mahmudullah and Taskin Ahmed took their team total to 245, though it wasn't enough to upset the Kiwis.  

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Kane Williamson's return bolstered their middle-order 

Chasing a below-par target, New Zealand did not have a perfect start as they lost Ravchin Ravindra in the third over. With Williamson making a comeback, the southpaw was promoted to the opening role. The NZ skipper celebrated his return in style with a well-disciplined half-century. Shakib broke the 79-run stand between him and Conway by taking the left-hander's wicket in the 21st over. 

Williamson (78 off 107) then got the company of Daryl Mitchell but an unlucky thumb injury meant the former had to retire hurt but the damage was done. Mitchell continued his good form and made his intentions clear right from the start. He then combined with Glenn Phillips to take the team over the finish line with more than seven overs to spare. 

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Here's how fans reacted to New Zealand's resounding win: 

Newzealand is playing fantastic

— Chad Singh (@Chaddsinghh) October 13, 2023

New Zealand always play different game in world Cup.

— Satya Prakash (@Satya_Prakash08) October 13, 2023

NZ Team 🏏 starts the tournament with bang 💥

— The Peaceful Me 🪩 (@thepeacefulme) October 13, 2023

I thing they secured there place in top 4.....rest 3 remaining.....

— Hriday Singh (@hridaysingh16) October 13, 2023

Blackcaps are looking too dangerous. pic.twitter.com/baTvXVKrRt

— Abhishek Ojha (@vicharabhio) October 13, 2023

Ye to hona hi tha 😤

— Bolo Yaarrrr (@ShaRo45264) October 13, 2023

Dark Horse of the Tournament. Semis fix for New Zealand.

— Indian Stats & Index (@statsfeed_india) October 13, 2023

Kane Willamson 💥 pic.twitter.com/TKOLVSSo9H

— Syed Irfan Ahmad (@Iam_SyedIrfan) October 13, 2023

It looks like they're iron strong

— Fateh.Sher🇬🇧Cheema (@FatehSher36) October 13, 2023