During his exceptional innings, Sarkar amassed 169 runs off 151 balls at a striking rate of 111.92, lacing his performance with 22 boundaries and 2 sixes against the Kiwi bowling unit.

His outstanding knock surpassed Tendulkar’s milestone for the highest runs scored in ODIs by a player from the sub-continent in New Zealand, a record set by the ‘Master Blaster’ with an unbeaten 163-run innings against New Zealand in Christchurch back in 2009. Additionally, Sarkar’s innings marked the highest individual score by a Bangladeshi cricketer in an away ground in ODIs.

In this match, New Zealand chose to field first after winning the toss at Saxton Oval. While Sarkar showcased brilliance with his 169-run contribution, his teammates struggled to make significant impacts, with no other player crossing the 50-run mark. Wicketkeeper Mushfiqur Rahim’s 45 runs from 57 balls added substance to the middle order, aiding Bangladesh to post a total of 291 runs.

In response, New Zealand required 292 runs in 50 overs to secure their second consecutive victory in the three-match ODI series.