‘This win will boost our confidence’

Bangladesh dominated proceedings in their seven-wicket overwhelming of New Zealand and premier all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan mentioned that such a performance is ought to boost their confidence ahead of the T20 World Cup later this year.

"Very good feeling to win the first match of the series, given the fact we've never won against New Zealand. This win will boost our confidence. We've been bowling really well through the Australia series and against New Zealand," said Shakib at the presentation ceremony after the game.

Despite registering their maiden win against the Kiwis in T20Is, the champion allrounder was seemingly agitated about how the surface played out for batsmen. 

"Our batting is not up to the mark yet, but, having said that, the conditions are not easy for batting," added the 34-year-old. 

Shakib picked up two wickets giving away only 10 runs in his four-over spell and scored 25 off 33 deliveries after Bangladesh lost two early wickets. 

Skipper Mahmudullah Riyad, meanwhile, was delighted after such a thumping win.

"It's a good feeling, having lost a few matches against them [New Zealand]. We need to come back again and do it again," Mahmudullah said. 

In addition, the captain praised the discipline of his bowlers.

"The main key was bowlers were hungry and disciplined with their skills; they were not trying too much and that was important. I'd have batted first but it's always a tricky wicket."

While Mahmudullah was delighted with the way his troops performed, New Zealand skipper Tom Latham blamed losing wickets at a crucial juncture of the game as the prime reason behind the defeat.

"Slightly disappointing with the start. We knew it was going to be tough but we kept losing wickets at crucial times," Latham said.

The Kiwis' stand-in skipper, however, remained optimistic for the upcoming games.

"For us, it's about finding a way in these conditions and try to assess what a good score is. With runs on the board, it isn't easy. As I said, it's about working [out] what a good score is and try and work our way around it. Proud of the effort the guys put in with the ball," Latham added.