Bangladesh Women got their ICC Women’s T20 World Cup campaign off to a successful start with a six-wicket victory over the Netherlands in Birmingham on Sunday, producing a composed all-round performance to begin the tournament on a positive note.
Chasing a target of 140, the Tigresses reached the finish line with five balls remaining, thanks largely to a brilliant innings from opener Juairiya Ferdous and a calm finishing effort from Sharmin Akter and Shorna Akter.
Juairiya laid the foundation for the chase with an impressive half-century, scoring 50 runs from just 33 deliveries. Her knock included seven boundaries and two sixes and helped Bangladesh seize early control of the contest. Together with Dilara Akter, she added 67 runs for the opening wicket, giving the team a strong platform.
The Netherlands, however, fought back by removing both openers in quick succession. The dismissal of captain Nigar Sultana Joty for a duck further increased the pressure, leaving Bangladesh at 85 for 4 and briefly raising hopes of a Dutch comeback.
Sharmin Akter and Shorna Akter then combined to ensure there would be no further setbacks. The pair stitched together an unbeaten 56-run stand for the fifth wicket, guiding Bangladesh safely to victory. Sharmin remained unbeaten on 37 from 32 balls, while Shorna contributed a valuable 18 not out from 17 deliveries.
Earlier, the Netherlands posted 139 for 8 after choosing to bat first. Captain Babette de Leede led the innings with a well-made 50 off 45 balls. Bangladesh’s bowling effort was a collective one, with Marufa Akter claiming two wickets, while Fariha Trisna, Sanjida Akter Meghla, Rabeya Khan and Ritu Moni took one wicket each.
With the opening victory secured, Bangladesh will now turn their attention to a tougher challenge against Australia Women's National Cricket Team in Leeds on Wednesday.
