Bangladesh kicked off their ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 campaign in style, cruising to a commanding seven-wicket victory over Pakistan at the R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium in Colombo on Thursday.
Opting to bowl first, Bangladesh delivered a clinical all-round performance, dismissing Pakistan for a paltry 129 in 38.3 overs.
Marufa Akter set the tone early, removing Omaima Sohail and Sidra Amin with two hooping inswingers in the very first over. From there, Pakistan never found stability. Nahida Akter chipped in with two wickets, including the key scalp of Muneeba Ali, while Shorna Akter emerged as the standout with stunning figures of 3 for 5.
Despite brief resistance from Rameem Shamim (23) and Fatima Sana (22), Pakistan’s innings lacked momentum and was wrapped up cheaply.
In reply, Bangladesh made light work of the chase. Although Diana Baig’s early strikes gave Pakistan hope, a composed partnership between captain Nigar Sultana (27) and Rubya Haider (54* off 63 balls) put Bangladesh firmly in control.
Haider’s fluent half-century, supported by a quick-fire cameo from Sobhana Mostary (24* off 16), ensured the target was reached comfortably in just 31.3 overs.
The emphatic win highlights Bangladesh’s growing stature in women’s cricket as they now turn their focus to a tougher clash against England on October 7.
Pakistan, meanwhile, face a crucial fixture against arch-rivals India on October 5, seeking to bounce back strongly.