Chittagong, October 20:

Bangladesh staged a late fightback against New Zealand to set up an intriguing finish to the first Test after the tourists batted sensibly in the second innings on Monday.

Opener Aaron Redmond (62 not out) and Jesse Ryder (38) had put New Zealand in a commanding position through their 90-run second-wicket stand before the home team ran Ryder out as the tourists finished the fourth day at 145-2. New Zealand, chasing 317 to win, put up a remarkable batting display to change the complexion of the game before the last minute dismissal left the match in balance.

The tourists need another 172 runs to win or bat out the 90 overs to draw the match on Tuesday. Bangladesh, who made 242 runs in their second innings earlier in the day, failed to match the first innings spark in their bowling on a weary pitch.

New Zealand, who were shot out for 171 in first innings, were given a solid 55-run start by Redmond and Jamie How (36) before Abdur Razzak struck. Redmond then took charge and scored his first Test fifty. Bangladesh, who resumed at 188-8, added another 54 runs before they were bowled out half-an-hour before lunch.