Bangladesh begin world cup with convincing Win over Pakistan

Bangladesh made a flying start to their Women’s World Cup campaign with a commanding seven-wicket victory over Pakistan in their opening match.

Pakistan’s batters struggled against the Bangladeshi bowling attack, failing to reach even 150 runs. Nahida Akter and Rabeya Khan’s spin proved too much to handle, while the pacers set a strong platform. The target was comfortably chased down by the Tigresses, with Rubya Haider leading the way.

Batting first, Pakistan were dismissed for just 129 runs. In reply, Bangladesh reached the target in 31.1 overs with seven wickets in hand. Marufa Akter was adjudged Player of the Match for her incisive bowling.

At the Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Pakistan won the toss and chose to bat first. The decision backfired immediately as pacer Marufa Akter struck twice in the opening over. She bowled Umaima Sohail with the fifth delivery and followed up by clean bowling the in-form Sidra Ameen on the next ball, sending both back without scoring.

Struggling at 2 for 2, Pakistan looked to rebuild through Muneeba Ali and Rameen Shamim. However, experienced spinner Nahida Akter broke the partnership, dismissing Muneeba for 17 off 35 deliveries before removing Shamim for 23 off 39.

Bangladesh’s bowlers continued to tighten their grip. Rabeya Khan dismissed Sidra Nawaz (15), while Nishita Akter removed Aliya Riaz (13). Skipper Fatima Sana top-scored with 22 but was trapped leg-before by Fahima Khatun. With no further resistance from the lower order, Pakistan were bowled out for 129 in 38.3 overs.

For Bangladesh, Shorna Akter returned figures of 3 for 5, while Marufa Akter and Nahida Akter claimed two wickets each. Nishita Akter, Fahima Khatun and Rabeya Khan took one apiece.

Chasing 130, Bangladesh lost opener Fargana Hoque early for a duck, trapped lbw by Diana Baig. Rubya Haider then steadied the innings, adding 28 with Sharmin Akter before the latter fell for 10. Skipper Nigar Sultana joined Rubya to build a 62-run stand for the third wicket. Nigar departed for 23 just short of the team’s 100, but Rubya carried on, finishing unbeaten on 54. She was supported by Sobhana Mostary, who remained 24 not out, as Bangladesh secured victory with 113 balls to spare.

Bangladesh will face England in their next match on October 7.