Spin Magic Helps Bangladesh Thrash Pakistan

Bangladesh defeated Pakistan by 23 runs in a Group A match of the Women’s T20 World Cup, thanks to a brilliant bowling performance from their spinners.

Defending a modest target of 124, Bangladesh staged a remarkable fightback after Pakistan had made a solid start. The Tigresses eventually restricted their opponents to 100/8 in 20 overs. Three-wicket hauls from Nahida Akter and Sanjida Akter Meghla completely dismantled the Pakistan batting lineup.

It was Pakistan’s third consecutive defeat in the tournament, dealing a major blow to their hopes of reaching the semi-finals. Bangladesh, meanwhile, bounced back strongly after suffering a heavy defeat against Australia in their previous match.

Batting first, Bangladesh suffered an early setback. Pakistan captain Fatima Sana struck twice in the opening over, dismissing openers Dilara Akter and Sharmin Akhter. Under disciplined Pakistani bowling, Bangladesh managed just 23/3 during the powerplay.

Captain Nigar Sultana then led the recovery with a composed knock of 36 runs. She shared a 35-run partnership for the fourth wicket with Sobhana Mostary, who contributed 22 runs.

Shorna Akter provided the much-needed acceleration in the closing stages of the innings. Her aggressive 39 off 22 balls included five boundaries, with another four coming off the final delivery of the innings as Bangladesh posted 123 runs.

In reply, Pakistan made a promising start. Muneeba Ali (25) and Gull Feroza (23) added 49 runs for the opening wicket.

Nahida Akter gave Bangladesh their first breakthrough in the eighth over by dismissing Feroza. She struck again in her next over, removing the well-set Muneeba Ali and turning the tide of the match.

As the pressure mounted, Pakistan’s fragile batting lineup collapsed. Bangladesh’s spinners maintained a disciplined line around the stumps, while the Pakistani batters repeatedly lost wickets attempting risky cross-batted shots. From a comfortable 49/1, Pakistan slumped to 84/8.

Sanjida Akter Meghla dismissed Ayesha Zafar and Aliya Riaz in the same over and finished with impressive figures of 3/21. Nahida Akter later removed Pakistan captain Fatima Sana to extinguish any remaining hopes of a comeback and seal a memorable victory for Bangladesh.