Bangladesh Women Slip to Second Successive Defeat in World Cup

Bangladesh’s promising start to the Women’s World Cup has lost momentum as they suffered their second straight defeat, this time against New Zealand. After a morale-boosting win over Pakistan, Nigar Sultana Joty’s side fell to a heavy loss against England and were once again outplayed by the White Ferns, who claimed a commanding 100-run victory to register their first win of the tournament.

In the day-night fixture held in Guwahati on Friday, New Zealand opted to bat first after winning the toss. Bangladesh began brightly with early wickets, reducing the hosts to 38 for 3, but the momentum soon shifted thanks to a brilliant partnership between captain Sophie Devine and Brooke Halliday.

The pair added a crucial 150-run stand, steering New Zealand to a strong total. Devine struck 63 off 85 balls, while Halliday’s composed 69 off 104 deliveries anchored the innings. Cameo contributions from Maddy Green, Isabella Gaze, and Lea Tahuhu pushed the team’s total to 227 for 9 in 50 overs.

For Bangladesh, Rabeya Khan was the pick of the bowlers with three wickets, while Nahida Akter, Marufa Akter, Nishita Akter Nishi, and Fahima Khatun chipped in with one apiece.

In reply, Bangladesh’s chase never got going. The top order crumbled early as Rubaiya Haider, Sumaiya Akter, and Sobhana Mostary fell cheaply. Skipper Nigar Sultana Joty also couldn’t provide stability, leaving Bangladesh reeling at 33 for 5.

Lower-order resistance from Fahima Khatun, who top-scored with 34 off 80 balls, offered some fight. Nahida Akter (17) and Rabeya Khan (25) added brief support, but no partnership lasted long enough to threaten the target. Bangladesh were eventually bowled out for 127 in 39.5 overs.

For New Zealand, Jess Kerr and Lea Tahuhu claimed three wickets each, while Rosemary Mair bagged two. Amelia Kerr and Eden Carson picked up one wicket apiece.
After a slow start to the tournament, Brooke Halliday’s match-winning knock earned her the Player of the Match award.