Given their reputation and track record preceding this series, the drawn first Test could be seen as a positive result for Bangladesh and a negative one for New Zealand. The two sides, however, seemed satisfied. Bangladesh appeared disappointed at not achieving a result, but chasing a total over 200 on the final day was going to be difficult. New Zealand, on the other hand, felt they got a just outcome.

The second and final Test of the series will offer a fascinating duel, given the desperation from both sides to win it. Bangladesh have a chance to claim their first Test win against New Zealand, and win the series, provided they clear a few barriers.

The home side did well in the first Test without big contributions from Shakib Al Hasan and Tamim Iqbal. In fact, Tamim struggled in the second innings, scoring 40-odd, while Shakib looked desperate to have a fifty under his belt. This hunger for runs among senior players before an important Test is a good sign for Bangladesh.

The performances of Sohag Gazi and Mominul Haque have been encouraging, particularly because both players were not certain picks before the series. Now they will need more performances to affirm the faith shown in them. Anamul Haque, Rubel Hossain and Robiul Islam will also look to come good and build on their records in the past year.

New Zealand have good pace bowlers in the side but their spinners nearly undermined the efforts of the rest of the attack. Left-arm spinner Bruce Martin bowled short and wide, and legspinner Ish Sodhi's honest effort on debut did not seem to threaten the Bangladesh batsmen.

Their batting is stronger. In Brendon McCullum, Ross Taylor and Kane Williamson, New Zealand have the batsmen to change the course of the game, although McCullum is yet to find form. Williamson made 114 and 74 in the Chittagong Test, and looked comfortable grinding down the Bangladesh bowlers, while Taylor showed signs of form during his stays at the crease.