Bangladesh clinched a crucial 23-run triumph against Pakistan in their third Group A clash of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup at The Rose Bowl in Southampton. Shorna Akter’s impressive late innings, combined with stellar performances from spinners Nahida Akter and Shanjida Akter Meghla, propelled Bangladesh to victory.
The victory, Bangladesh’s second in three matches, places them in contention for a semifinal berth, elevating them to third place in Group A with four points. Shorna’s unbeaten 39 off 22 balls helped Bangladesh reach 123 for six after a shaky start where they were five down for 72.
Pakistan’s openers, Muneeba Ali (25) and Gull Feroza (23), laid a solid foundation with a 49-run opening partnership. However, Bangladesh’s spin duo led a remarkable turnaround, as Nahida (3-18) dismissed both openers swiftly, and Meghla (3-21) took crucial wickets in the same over. Pakistan crumbled from 49 without loss to 84 for eight, eventually finishing at 100 for eight in their 20 overs.
Rabeya Khan and Ritu Moni also contributed with a wicket each for Bangladesh. Earlier, despite a shaky start, Bangladesh managed to post a competitive total, thanks to Captain Nigar Sultana Joty’s steady 36 and vital partnerships with Sobhana Mostary and Ritu Moni. Shorna’s explosive finish boosted Bangladesh’s total, which their bowlers defended admirably.
Shorna’s match-winning performance earned her the player of the match award. Bangladesh began their campaign with a win over the Netherlands and later suffered a defeat against Australia. Next, they will face India in their penultimate group-stage match on June 25 in Manchester.