Bangladesh cruise to win over Pakistan in Women's World Cup | The Express Tribune
Key Takeaways
- Bangladesh defeated Pakistan by seven wickets in their Women's Cricket World Cup opening match in Colombo.
- Pakistan set a modest target of 129, largely due to a strong bowling performance by Bangladesh, highlighted by Shorna Akter's 3/5 figures.
- Opener Rubya Haider anchored the successful chase with an unbeaten half-century on her WODI debut.
- Bangladesh's bowling attack, featuring effective spin and early breakthroughs from Marufa Akter, restricted Pakistan significantly.
- Pakistan's batting display was criticized as limp, with only two players scoring over 20.
Bangladesh launched their Women's Cricket World Cup campaign successfully by routing Pakistan by seven wickets in Colombo on Thursday, finishing the chase with 18.5 overs remaining. The foundation of the win was laid by the bowlers, as seamer Marufa Akter struck early, and spinners Nahida Akter and Shorna Akter dismantled the Pakistani batting lineup, which struggled on the sluggish surface. Shorna Akter was exceptional, taking 3 wickets for only 5 runs, including cleaning up the tail. In response, opener Rubya Haider played a composed, unbeaten half-century, guiding Bangladesh past the below-par target of 130 without stress. Following the win, Marufa Akter expressed thrill, crediting teammates and analyst input for their strong start. Pakistan's batting was deemed limp, with only Diana Baig offering a minor positive with her bowling spell.
