Phillips' counter-attack leads New Zealand's resurgence in second Bangladesh Test

Glenn Phillips played aggressively, scoring 87 runs, to keep New Zealand competitive on day three of a finely balanced, rain-affected second and final Test against Bangladesh on Friday.

Starting the day at a precarious 55-5, Phillips' all-round display helped New Zealand reach 180 all out in response to Bangladesh's first innings total of 172 in Dhaka.

As bad light interrupted play, Bangladesh reached 38-2, wiping out the eight-run deficit. Zakir Hasan was on 16, while Mominul Haque was yet to score.

Ajaz Patel dismissed Mahmudul Hasan Joy for two in the first over, while Tim Southee removed Bangladesh skipper Najmul Hasan Shanto for 15.

Phillips, speaking to reporters, noted, "I think it played pretty similarly to day one, with a bit of spin and skid. If you have limited time on the pitch, you've got to make the most of the opportunities. It's certainly a good challenge."

Bangladesh aimed to set a target of around 200 runs. Spinner Nayeem Hasan expressed, "The longer we bat, the better for us. A score of 200-220 runs, we believe, we can defend."

Friday's play resumed after rain interruptions that caused four sessions— including one in the morning— to be washed out. Phillips's innings, featuring nine fours and four sixes in a determined 72-ball knock, stood out.

He formed a crucial 55-run partnership for the eighth wicket with Kyle Jamieson (20) before his departure.

Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Taijul Islam claimed three wickets each for Bangladesh, while Nayeem Hasan and Shoriful Islam took two wickets each.

Phillips and overnight partner Daryl Mitchell adopted an aggressive approach, crafting a 49-run stand for the sixth wicket before Bangladesh's breakthrough.

Mehidy's outstanding catch dismissed Mitchell for 18, followed by Nayeem's dismissal of Mitchell Santner. Jamieson contributed before being dismissed by Shoriful.

Shoriful then forced Phillips to edge a catch behind the stumps before Taijul concluded the New Zealand innings with Southee's wicket for 14.

Fifteen wickets fell on the first day, while the second day saw no play due to continuous rain in the national capital.

With hopes of securing their first-ever series win over the Black Caps, the hosts lead the two-Test series 1-0 following a 150-run victory in Sylhet.

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