New Zealand’s Michael Bracewell has achieved a historic milestone in the 2025 Champions Trophy against Bangladesh. The off-spinning all-rounder delivered an outstanding performance, taking 4 wickets for 26 runs. His spell played a crucial role in restricting Bangladesh.
- Michael Bracewell recorded the best bowling figures by a New Zealand spinner in Champions Trophy history.
- He surpassed legends like Paul Wiseman, Jeetan Patel, and Daniel Vettori.
- His spell helped New Zealand gain a strong position in the match.
Bracewell’s Record-Breaking Spell
Bracewell’s spell at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium saw him dismiss key Bangladeshi batsmen. His victims included:
- Tanzid Hasan (Opener)
- Towhid Hridoy
- Mushfiqur Rahim
- Mahmudullah Riyad
After 26.1 overs, Bangladesh was struggling at 118 for 5. Bracewell’s exceptional control and accuracy made him the best-performing New Zealand spinner in Champions Trophy history.
Best Bowling Figures by a New Zealand Spinner in Champions Trophy
| Player | Best Figures | Opposition | Venue | Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Michael Bracewell | 4/26 | Bangladesh | Rawalpindi | 2025* |
| Paul Wiseman | 4/45 | Zimbabwe | Nairobi | 1998 |
| Jeetan Patel | 3/11 | South Africa | Brabourne (Mumbai) | 2006 |
| Daniel Vettori | 3/14 | USA | Oval (London) | 2004 |
| Daniel Vettori | 3/43 | Pakistan | Johannesburg | 2009 |
Surpassing Legends of New Zealand Cricket
Before Bracewell’s record, Paul Wiseman held the best figures by a Kiwi spinner in the tournament. Wiseman’s 4/45 vs Zimbabwe in 1998 was a long-standing record. Bracewell’s performance now stands at the top, proving his impact in New Zealand’s bowling attack.
Impact on the Match
Bracewell’s spell put Bangladesh under pressure early in the game. However, Najmul Hossain Shanto’s 77 runs led the team’s comeback. His partnership with Jaker Ali (40)* helped Bangladesh recover. By 46 overs, Bangladesh reached 218 for 7.
Why This Record Matters
- New Zealand’s spin attack is often overshadowed by pace bowlers.
- Bracewell’s success proves spinners can dominate in key tournaments.
- He is now a key player in New Zealand’s bowling unit.
What’s Next for Bracewell?
With this record-breaking performance, Bracewell has set a high standard. His ability to take wickets at crucial moments makes him a vital asset for New Zealand in the 2025 Champions Trophy.
Michael Bracewell’s 4/26 vs Bangladesh is a historic moment for New Zealand cricket. His brilliant spell has placed him among the best spinners in the tournament’s history. With this performance, he has solidified his place in the team and created a legacy in New Zealand’s spin department.
Check out the Champions Trophy Stats
