Tigresses Triumph in Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifiers Opener
Bangladesh made a strong start in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifiers by defeating the USA by 21 runs. The match took place at the Mulpani Cricket Ground in Kathmandu, Nepal.
Tigresses Triumph in Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifiers Opener
Sharmin Akhter starred for Bangladesh, scoring an impressive 63 runs off just 39 balls. Her innings included eight boundaries and one six. This performance marked her maiden half-century in Women’s T20 Internationals.
Bangladesh batted first, compiling a total of 159 runs for the loss of five wickets in their allotted 20 overs. Sobhana Mostary contributed significantly as well, adding 32 runs off 29 deliveries.
USA Bowling Highlights
- Maahi Madhavan: 3 wickets
- Isaani Vaghela: 2 wickets
In reply, the USA struggled to keep pace. They managed to score 137 runs, losing nine wickets. Nahida Akter was the standout bowler for Bangladesh, taking 4 wickets for just 24 runs.
Turning Points in the Match
The USA started their chase solidly, reaching 55 runs for 1 wicket after nine overs. However, Ritu Moni struck back, claiming three quick wickets, including that of opener Chetna Pagyadyala, who scored 36 runs off 31 balls. The USA soon found themselves at 68 for 4.
Ritu Singh posed a late challenge with a rapid 33 runs off 13 balls, which included numerous boundaries. However, Nahida Akter dismissed her in the 18th over, securing a crucial wicket that shifted the momentum back to Bangladesh.
Bowling Summary
- Nahida Akter: 4 wickets for 24 runs
- Ritu Moni: 3 wickets
- Rabeya Khatun: 2 wickets
In her remarkable spell, Nahida also stumped Geetika Kodali for a duck and later sent Tarannum Copra back to the pavilion to end her successful performance.
Bangladesh will advance to their next match against Papua New Guinea in Kirtipur on Tuesday, looking to continue their winning momentum in the tournament.
