Inspired Vettori dashes Bangladeshi hopes

New Zealand captain Daniel Vettori dashed Bangladesh's hopes of a first major Test win on Tuesday with a fighting half-century as the tourists reeled in a mammoth target for victory in the first match.

Man-of-the-match Vettori, who also took nine wickets, hit 76 to spare his team's blushes as the tourists reached the required 317 for seven wickets after tea on the last day.

Bangladesh have never beaten a big Test-playing nation with their only win in 53 matches coming against Zimbabwe three years ago. For New Zealand, it was a record run-chase away from home after their 164-4 against Australia at Perth in 1985.

Vettori, 29, anchored the batting with his second half-century of the match at Divisional Stadium, sharing a solid 45-run stand for the third wicket with Aaron Redmond (79) and then 82 for the sixth wicket with Daniel Flynn (49).

Vettori admitted he was worried when number three batsman Brendon McCullum fell lbw for two with the score at 216 for five.

"That was a moment of apprehension. He got a tough decision but then I got a good partner in Flynn and had a good partnership which was required at that time. I am pleased with the batting effort," said the captain.

Vettori was finally bowled by left-arm spinner Abdur Razzak with just 19 needed for victory. He hit seven boundaries during his 214-ball knock and succeeded in countering the spin attack after promoting himself to number four.

With just one run needed, Flynn gave a simple catch off Shakib Al Hasan and it was left to Kyle Mills (one) to hit the winning run, with Jacob Oram remaining not out on eight.

CHITTAGONG, Bangladesh, AFP