New Zealand lose three before rain plays spoilsport

(Reuters) – Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan picked up all three New Zealand wickets to fall as the visitors reached 107 for three before rain returned to halt play on day two of the second and final test yesterday.

Kane Williamson (28) and former captain Ross Taylor (37) were at the crease, trailing the hosts by 175 runs, when a heavy downpour washed out the last session for the second day running. Former Bangladesh skipper Shakib picked up openers Peter Fulton (14) and Hamish Rutherford (13) before lunch and added the wicket of captain Brendon McCullum (11) in the afternoon.

Williamson retired hurt with a swelling on his face, hit on the helmet grill while trying to duck under a Rubel Hossain bouncer, but to New Zealand’s relief he returned to the crease at the fall of McCullum’s wicket.

Earlier, left-arm paceman Neil Wagner snared three to add to his overnight tally and complete his first five-wicket haul in tests as Bangladesh were all out for 282 after resuming on 228 for five in the morning.