, April 27 -- Dane Cleaver and Katene Clarke scored rapid half-centuries to propel New Zealand to 182-6 against Bangladesh in the first Twenty20 international on Monday.

Bangladesh needs 183 runs to secure a victory.

After Bangladesh won the toss and elected to field at the Bir Sreshtho Flight Lieutenant Matiur Rahman Stadium, the hosts' bowling attack, led by leg-spinner Rishad Hossain (2-32), successfully pulled back the scoring rate following a dominant New Zealand powerplay.

New Zealand suffered an early setback when Tim Robinson was run out for a duck in the second over. However, Cleaver quickly shifted the momentum, playing a creative innings featuring scoops and classical shots.

He struck seven boundaries and a six in his 28-ba...