New Zealand Women put up a total of 227 for 9 against Bangladesh in their ICC Women’s World Cup match in Guwahati. Despite early setbacks, the middle order ensured a competitive score on the board.
As has become a trend during this campaign, New Zealand lost two wickets inside the powerplay. Amelia Kerr followed soon after, leaving the side in early trouble once again. It was captain Sophie Devine who led the rebuild, forming a key partnership with Brooke Halliday. The two added 112 runs for the fourth wicket. While the stand never quite shifted into high gear, it provided stability and laid the foundation for a respectable total.
Devine struck 63 from 85 balls while Halliday compiled a measured 69 off 104. Their efforts kept the innings steady, though the run rate remained under control for Bangladesh.
Late in the innings, Maddy Green chipped in with a brisk 25. Isabella Gaze added 12, and Lea Tahuhu’s unbeaten 12 from just four deliveries provided a final push to take New Zealand beyond the 225 mark.
Bangladesh, despite allowing a century stand in the middle, will feel satisfied with their overall effort. Their pace spearhead Marufa Akter struggled, conceding 58 runs in her seven overs. However, the spin unit kept things tight. Rabeya Khan was the standout performer, claiming 3 for 30 in her ten overs. She found vital breakthroughs and kept the pressure on throughout.
Nahida Akter, Nishita Akter Nishi and Fahima Khatun all bowled economically, and captain Nigar Sultana was sharp behind the stumps, pulling off three stumpings. Two run outs also helped restrict the scoring.
The target of 228 will be a stiff ask for Bangladesh, as it would mark their second-highest successful chase in ODI history. With the pitch offering assistance to spin and scoreboard pressure in play, New Zealand will believe they have enough to push for their first win of the tournament.
