Heartbreak for Bangladesh as South Africa Clinch Dramatic 3 Wicket Win

Bangladesh’s women fought until the very last breath — but victory slipped away in heartbreaking fashion. At one stage, the match seemed firmly in their grasp, yet in the final moments, South Africa turned the tide to snatch a thrilling 3-wicket win in a nail-biting World Cup encounter.

The clash had everything — tension, fight, and drama. Bangladesh matched the Proteas blow for blow with both bat and ball, but in the end, it was South Africa who had the final say, leaving the Tigresses with a story of courage and heartbreak.

After winning the toss and opting to bat first, Bangladesh posted a competitive 232 for 6. The openers gave the team a solid start before Rubaya Akter fell for 25 with the score on 53. Fargana Hoque contributed 30, while Sharmin Akter and skipper Nigar Sultana added a crucial 77-run stand for the third wicket.

Sharmin scored a fine fifty, and Nigar added 32 runs before Swarna Akter provided late fireworks. Her brilliant 51 off just 35 balls, featuring three fours and three sixes, propelled Bangladesh to a strong total.

In reply, Nahida Akter struck early to remove Tazmin Brits, giving Bangladesh the perfect start. South Africa were in deep trouble at 78 for 5, as Bangladesh dominated the middle overs.

But a game-changing 85-run partnership between Chloe Tryon and Marizanne Kapp rescued the Proteas. Despite several chances — including missed run-outs and a dropped catch by Swarna — Bangladesh couldn’t close out the game.

Needing six runs in the final over, South Africa sealed victory with a six off Nahida Akter, completing a dramatic turnaround with three balls to spare.

It was a painful defeat for Nigar Sultana’s side — one that could so easily have gone their way — but their spirited performance won many hearts.