Nick Kelly struck an unbeaten century to put New Zealand ‘A’ in a commanding position against Bangladesh ‘A’ on the third day of the first four-day match at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium on Friday.
Kelly scored 117 off 196 balls, hitting 13 fours and three sixes, as the visitors reached 216-5 at stumps, extending their lead to 204 runs in the second innings.
Resuming the day at 249-8, Bangladesh could add just 19 runs before being bowled out for 268 in the first innings, taking a narrow 12-run lead, despite Nurul Hasan’s century.
Kristian Clarke did not take much time to remove overnight batter Ebadot Hossain (12), who tried to hold the fort for a bit with Hasan Murad, who remained unbeaten on 15.
New Zealand ‘A’ made a strong start in their second innings, with Kelly and captain Joe Carter adding 115 runs for the second wicket after Rhys Mariu (6) fell cheaply.
Carter scored 58 before being dismissed by off-spinner Nayeem Hasan, who broke the partnership and brought the hosts back into the game, briefly.
Left-arm spinner Murad then struck regular blows to keep Bangladesh in the contest, as he finished the day with a figure of 3-51.
However, Kelly fought at the other end to keep the visitors in control. He was accompanied by Mitchell Hay, who was unbeaten on 11 at the close of play.
With one day remaining in the match, Bangladesh will rely heavily on their spinners if they are to force a positive result.
Earlier, New Zealand scored 256 in their first innings. Khaled Ahmed claimed 6-59.