The Bangladesh women’s team continues to face a familiar pattern of promise followed by unraveling in crucial moments, echoing the challenges seen in their male counterparts. Despite a strong bowling performance that restricted Sri Lanka to 202 runs, Bangladesh faltered in their chase, falling short by seven runs and missing out on a spot in the semifinals.
Struggling with composure and match awareness, Bangladesh found themselves in a winning position with 12 runs needed off 12 balls and six wickets in hand, but ultimately failed to capitalize on the opportunity. Their discomfort in chasing totals has been a recurring issue, as their traditional game plan revolves around setting targets and relying on spin bowling for defense.
A team official expressed disappointment in the team’s performance, noting that the batters prolonged the game unnecessarily. This trend of faltering in crucial moments has been evident in past matches, such as the World Cup encounter against South Africa where Bangladesh fell short despite a manageable target.
Former captain Habibul Bashar attributed the team’s struggles to inadequate preparation, emphasizing the importance of building a winning mentality through competitive matches. Despite the challenges, he acknowledged the team’s effort in the World Cup, highlighting their positive aspects despite the unfavorable results.
Captain Nigar Sultana Joty’s impressive innings of 77, the highest by a Bangladeshi player in a Women’s ODI World Cup, showcased the team’s potential. However, Joty acknowledged the team’s difficulty in handling pressure situations and converting opportunities into runs.
As they gear up for their final match against India on October 26, Bangladesh’s campaign has underscored the psychological hurdles they face in translating their potential into consistent performances on the field.