Hamilton: Bangladesh registered their first win in the ongoing ICC Women’s World Cup by beating Pakistan by nine runs at Seddon Park in Hamilton on Monday.
Pakistan skipper Bismah Maroof won the toss and elected to field. Batting first, Bangladesh posted 234 runs in their 50 overs. Fargana Hoque was the top run getter from the side. She was ably supported by Sharmin Akhter (44) and skipper Nigar Sultana also contributed 46 runs. It was also Bangladesh’s highest total in the ODIs.
Chasing 235 to win, Sidra Ameen gave Pakistan a flying start, form a 91-run partnership with Nahida Khan (43) for the first wicket and then added another 64 runs with Bismah Maroof (31). Riding on Ameen’s brilliant show kept themselves in the chase. However, the 44th over bowled by Fahima Khatun changed the complexion of the game.
Khatun picked up the wickets of Omaima Sohail (10), Aliya Riaz (0) and Fatima Sana (0). While Rumana Ahmed removed Nida Dar (0) before centurion Ameen fell for a run-out to end Pakistan’s hope.
The victory will keep Bangladesh’s semifinals hopes alive, while Pakistan’s chances look all but over as they again are at the bottom of the points table.
Brief scores: Bangladesh Women 234/7 in 50 overs (Sharmin Akhter 44, Fargana Hoque 71, Nigar Sultana 46; Nashra Sandhu 3/41) beat Pakistan Women 225/9 in 50 overs (Nahida Khan 43, Sidra Ameen 104, Bismah Maroof 31; Fahima Khatun 3/38, Rumana Ahmed 2/29) by nine runs.
