Dhaka: Main question ahead of Bangladesh's home series against New Zealand, is status as a Test-playing nation is right decision not not. Bangla already loss of 14 players to the ICL? The likes of Habibul Bashar and Mohammad Rafique may not be key figures anymore, but Bangladesh will surely feel the pinch of an exodus that includes several recent internationals. At full strength, they have failed to challenge major opposition since the World Cup last year and, with the talent pool now depleted, few would bet a change of odds against New Zealand.

Bangladesh never won Test and ODI match against Newzealand while Bangladesh won against world Champions Australia. On their last international assignment - a three-ODI series against Aussie - Bangladesh were humbled by Oz, with batting failures largely to blame. Bangladesh play New Zealand the Dhaka Warriors, comprising the ICL's Bangladesh recruits led by former captain Bashar, will be showcasing their talent in India.

New Zealand also lost both their home and away Test series against England earlier in the year but they have been more successful in limited-overs games. They beat England 3-1 both home and away. New Zealand have won their last five ODIs, the recent two beind comprehensive wins against Scotland and Ireland. The first ODI is in Mirpur on October 9, followed by matches on the 11th and 14th.
Pitch Report: The pitch is expected to favour batting. The average score in here has been 239, but New Zealand's strong batting line-up will look to put up a big score.

Weather: Mirpur has experienced dry conditions and play is likely to take place. Drizzle, High 89F, humidity 70%. Winds light. Air Quality: NA, UV Index: 9

Team Combination

Bangladesh (likely): Tamim Iqbal, Junaid Siddique, Naeem Islam, Mohammad Ashraful, Shakib Al Hasan, Mushfiqur Rahim, Mahmudullah, Mashrafe Mortaza, Abdur Razzak, Shahadat Hossain, Syed Rasel.

New Zealand (likely): Jesse Ryder, Brendon McCullum, Jamie How, Scott Styris, Daniel Flynn, Jacob Oram, Grant Elliott, Daniel Vettori, Jeetan Patel, Tim Southee, Kyle Mills.

Head to Head
New Zealand v Bangladesh – One Day International Records (Since 1990)
Total Match – 11
New Zealand – 11
Bangladesh Won– 0