Bangladesh were handed a heavy 100-run defeat by New Zealand in their Women’s World Cup clash. After the Kiwis posted 227 batting first, the Tigresses struggled in response, marking their second consecutive loss in the tournament after one win from three matches. Despite the defeat, Bangladesh remain fifth in the points table, ahead of sixth-placed New Zealand.
After winning the toss, New Zealand restricted Bangladesh’s Marufa Akter with the new ball. Rabeya Khan struck early, removing Georgia Plimmer for 35, while Suzie Bates, who had scored 29 off 33 balls, was run out in the same over.
The innings gained momentum through a partnership between captain Sophie Devine (63 off 85) and Brooke Halliday (69 off 104). Devine was eventually dismissed by Nishita Akter Nishi, while Halliday fell to Fahima Khatun. In the final overs, New Zealand capitalised on sloppy bowling and fielding, finishing their 50 overs on 227/9.
Rabeya Khan was the pick of the Bangladesh bowlers with three wickets, while Fahima Khatun, Nishita Akter Nishi, Nahida Akter, and Marufa Akter took one each.
Chasing 228, Bangladesh faltered from the outset. Openers Rubaiya Haider Jhilik and Sharmin Akter Supta were dismissed cheaply for 3 and 4 respectively. Captain Nigar Sultana Jyoti showed a patient, Test-like approach at number three, but managed only 4 off 28 balls before being dismissed with the score on 30. Sobhana Mostari added 2 from 11 balls, and quick wickets continued to tumble, including Sumaiya Akter (1 off 9) and Swarna Akter (1 off 4), leaving Bangladesh reeling at 33/6.
Amid the collapse, Fahima Khatun fought valiantly, scoring 34 not out off 79 balls. Nahida Akter contributed 17 off 32, and Rabeya Khan added 25 off 39, but no partnership lasted long enough to mount a serious challenge. Bangladesh were eventually all out for 127 in 39.5 overs, suffering a heavy 100-run defeat.
Jess Kerr and Lea Tahuhu each claimed three wickets, ensuring New Zealand secured their first win of the tournament. With 2 points, the Kiwis moved up to sixth place, while Bangladesh remain fifth with one win from three matches.
