Suzie Bates stole the show, scoring 79 off 68 balls at the University Oval, to help the White Ferns chase down the opponents score of 140 for eight in a match that was reduced to 27 overs apiece with seven overs to spare.

The win helped lift New Zealand to third in the overall standings behind India and South Africa.

Bates’ half-century was her 28th in one day internationals. 

Amelia Kerr, unbeaten on 47, did well to support Bates after Sophie Devine departed after scoring 14 runs.

Vice-captain Amy Satterthwaite played her part with the ball, taking three wickets from five overs. 

Satterthwaite’s spell halted the momentum created by Bangladesh openers Fargana Hoque and Shamima Sultana, who managed to score 50 runs without loss.

Frances Mackay got the first wicket to dismiss Sultana when Bangladesh were on 59 before Satterthwaite picked up two wickets in an over to help slow the run rate.

Some clever play from Mackay helped New Zealand run out Hoque before the Bangladesh batting line-up collapsed in quick succession.

Spinner Salma Khatun bagged the only wicket for Bangladesh to dismiss Devine, but it was not of much use as Bates and Kerr chased down the target with ease.

The next game of the World Cup is due to see Australia take on Pakistan tomorrow at the Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui